REFLECTING ON FOUNDER MODE

Founder Mode isn’t just a way of working — it’s a high-intensity mindset that drives bold decisions, resilience, and forward momentum. It’s how founders stay deeply connected to their companies while leading through uncertainty and complexity.

As we wrap up the Founder Mode Series, it’s time to reflect. In my blog this week, I share six key takeaways from the series to guide your reflection, navigate challenges, and prepare for your company's future. I focus on:

1. The essential nature of Founder Mode
2. The double-edged sword of Founder Mode
3. The trap of Manager Mode
4. Navigating the Stages of Development
5. Preparing for the transition to new leadership
6. Reflecting on this series

Read more in Reflecting on Founder Mode and Preparing for What’s Next.

As you reflect on your journey as a founder and its challenges, consider how you’ve navigated complexity, led with a clear vision, and empowered your team to grow. 

PERSPECTIVES

“How you climb a mountain is more important than reaching the top.”
— Yvon Chouinard

“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” ― Andy Warhol

MARK MY WORDS

Operating in Founder Mode requires more than vision. It demands resilience, adaptability, and an ongoing willingness to evolve as your company grows. To lead effectively, you need to know when to dial up the intensity, when to delegate, and when to step back and let the team run. Founder Mode is about finding that balance between driving the organization forward and empowering others to lead in the areas where they shine.

Here’s the key takeaway: Founder Mode isn’t a forever state, nor should it be. It’s a mindset we bring out in critical moments to navigate complexity and bring clarity. 

Stay tuned for a Founder Mode Workbook to deepen your reflection and guide your next steps as a leader. At its core, this journey isn’t just about building a great company — it’s about ensuring the foundation you’ve built remains strong, even when you’re not at the helm every day.

Founder Tool Kit

Stages of Development Assessment

Over the years, I’ve seen how companies progress through different stages of growth and how important it is to know where you stand. That’s why we developed the Stages of Development Assessment. It’s a tool to help you take a clear-eyed look at your organization’s current stage and determine the steps needed to level up and build a thriving, scalable business.

You’ll learn:

• Your organization's current Stage of Development
• The key traits and challenges associated with your stage
  
• Actionable insights to help you advance and grow

[Take the Assessment]