From Corporate Consultant to Startup Founder: Lessons in Leadership and Decision-Making

In my 20s, I made a bold decision that many might find daunting: I left the prestigious consulting firm McKinsey & Company to venture into the unknown world of startups. At McKinsey, I was surrounded by some of the brightest minds, and the experience I gained was invaluable. However, a yearning for creativity and autonomy pushed me toward the startup ecosystem. This move was not just a career change; it was a transformative journey that redefined my professional identity.

One of the most significant lessons I learned as a founder was the importance of agility. Unlike in consulting, where decisions were often backed by extensive data and analysis, the startup world demanded rapid decision-making with limited information. This shift taught me to trust my instincts and embrace calculated risks. The ability to pivot quickly in response to market changes became a crucial skill in navigating the challenges of the startup landscape.

In the consulting realm, my role often involved presenting well-researched strategies to clients. However, as a startup founder, communication took on a new dimension. I had to learn to convey my vision passionately and persuasively to various stakeholders, from potential investors to team members. This experience taught me the power of assertive communication and the importance of building a narrative that resonates with others.

The startup journey is rife with challenges and setbacks. Unlike the structured environment of consulting, where projects followed a defined trajectory, startups are unpredictable. Each failure became a learning opportunity, reinforcing the importance of resilience and a growth mindset. These experiences taught me that setbacks are not the end but rather stepping stones to greater achievements.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a startup founder is the ability to shape the company culture. I focused on creating an environment that encouraged innovation and experimentation. By fostering a culture where team members felt empowered to share ideas and take ownership, we were able to drive creativity and collaboration. This culture became a significant driver of our success and differentiation in the competitive startup world.