As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to feel like you’re living on an island. The weight of decision-making, responsibility, and the constant pressure to succeed can make it feel like you’re navigating a vast, uncharted sea all alone. While there’s no shortage of advice available from well-meaning mentors, many entrepreneurs may find that their challenges don’t quite align with the advice offered. This is where a Gen-X coach can make all the difference.
I’m Herman DeBoard, a proud member of Generation X, born in 1972, and I understand the unique challenges of growing up with the characteristics of a latchkey kid—left to navigate life with a sense of independence, resourcefulness, and resilience. These traits not only defined my childhood, but they have also become a fundamental part of my approach to entrepreneurship and leadership. And as a Gen-X coach, I bring a perspective that’s grounded in the very realities many entrepreneurs face today: isolation, uncertainty, and the need for self-reliance.
The Latchkey Kid Mentality: A Formidable Asset in Business
For those of us who grew up in the Gen-X era, many of us were “latchkey kids,” often coming home to an empty house, navigating life’s challenges largely on our own. We had to learn how to problem-solve, take responsibility, and find solutions without a constant safety net. This kind of upbringing fostered a deep sense of independence and self-sufficiency—qualities that are critical in entrepreneurship.
As a Gen-X entrepreneur, I’ve navigated that lonely island of entrepreneurship first-hand. I know what it feels like to carry the burden of decisions, and I also know how important it is to strike a balance between pushing forward with independence and knowing when to lean on others for support. I can provide the perspective and guidance that resonates with entrepreneurs, particularly those who find themselves struggling with feelings of isolation or who simply want a sounding board that understands their mindset.
The Benefits of a Gen-X Coach
- Resilience and Resourcefulness:
Growing up during the rise of technology, but still remembering a time before it dominated our lives, Gen-Xers developed the unique ability to adapt quickly to change and be resourceful in finding solutions. These traits directly benefit entrepreneurs who often need to pivot and adjust to the unpredictable nature of business. - A Balanced Perspective on Work and Life:
We witnessed the hustle of the baby boomers and the tech revolution of millennials, but we also know the value of balance. As a Gen-X coach, I understand that business success isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter and finding balance between personal life and career. My coaching focuses on maintaining that equilibrium, especially when the weight of entrepreneurship can make it feel like you have no time for yourself. - Real-World Experience:
Having built and sold multiple businesses myself, I’ve faced the same highs and lows you might be dealing with right now. I bring practical, actionable advice that comes from lived experience—not just theory. I can relate to the feeling of being overwhelmed by decisions and the challenges that come with scaling a business while managing the stress that comes with it. - A Unique Understanding of Loneliness in Business:
The entrepreneurial journey is a lonely one, and I can offer you the perspective of someone who has walked that path. As a Gen-X coach, I don’t just provide business advice—I understand the emotional toll it can take. I’ve been there, and I offer a safe space for entrepreneurs to talk openly about their struggles and successes without judgment. - Critical Thinking and Independent Problem Solving:
In a world full of advice and opinions, it can be difficult to cut through the noise. As a Gen-X coach, I’ll help you tap into your critical thinking skills, offering clear and direct guidance to help you think independently. My coaching focuses on empowering you to make decisions based on your unique vision, instead of following trends or relying on outside influence.
Navigating the Island with a Gen-X Guide
The entrepreneurial journey can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. As a Gen-X coach, I offer a perspective that blends independence with collaboration, self-reliance with the power of building strong networks. I can help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship by offering real-world advice from someone who has been in the trenches and understands the unique pressures and demands of business life.
If you’re ready to find balance, embrace your entrepreneurial journey with confidence, and navigate the lonely island of entrepreneurship with a trusted guide, I invite you to connect. Let’s chart a course for success together.
