Back in 1985, I was just a kid with a Tony Hawk skateboard.

Today, I’m a business owner.

Turns out, skating taught me a lot about success:

  1. Embrace the Falls
    Every skater knows falling is part of getting better. I fell hundreds of times learning tricks.
    Now when my business hits bumps, I know it’s just part of growing stronger. It doesn’t help with the pain at the time but always know that you can get back up.
  2. Keep Pushing
    Nobody lands an ollie on the first try. It took me months. Even longer to earn it back last summer after a couple of decades’ hiatus. – Running a business needs that same. You keep going until you nail it.
  3. See Different Lines
    As skaters, we’d look at an empty pool or handrail and see possibilities where others saw nothing. – In business, I still look for opportunities others miss.
  4. Build Your Posse
    The best days skating were with my friends, David and Terry, teaching each other tricks and cheering each other on.
    Business works the same – you need stellar people around you.
  5. Roll with Changes
    Every skate spot was different – you had to adapt.
    Business throws constant changes at you too. Being flexible keeps you rolling.
  6. Enjoy the Ride
    I didn’t skate to get somewhere. I skated because I loved it.
    The best businesses come from that same kind of commitment and interest.
  7. Celebrate Small Wins
    Landing my first ollie was huge.
    In business, I try to celebrate little victories as they add up.
  8. Know Your Limits
    Good skaters learn which risks are worth taking.
    Smart business owners do too. We push our limits while staying safe enough to skate another day.

    That old Tony Hawk board (pictured below) taught me WAY more than I realized.