As a technology entrepreneur, I’ve learned that maintaining a playful wit and youthful flexibility has been key to both success and happiness. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the grind and lose sight of what matters. But refusing to let the weight of responsibility crush your enthusiasm might be the most important skill of all.
When I started my company, I was a wide-eyed dreamer with a passion for innovation. As years passed and responsibilities grew, it was tempting to become jaded and cynical. Instead, I made a conscious effort to nurture my inner child. I surrounded myself with people who shared my love for creativity and exploration. We brainstormed wild ideas, laughed at our own jokes, and celebrated successes with childlike glee. Some might have seen this as unprofessional, but I knew better.
Staying youthful doesn’t mean refusing to grow up. I’ve made tough decisions, taken calculated risks, and learned from mistakes. But balancing maturity with youthfulness has been one of my greatest strengths. Even as my company has grown, I’ve always made time for side projects and creative pursuits. These activities keep my mind sharp and spirit young.
I remember one particularly difficult period when we faced a major setback. Morale was low, and everyone felt the strain. Rather than succumbing to despair, I decided to inject some levity. I organized a company-wide scavenger hunt, complete with silly challenges and absurd prizes. Some thought I was crazy, but the event was a huge success. For a few hours, we forgot our troubles and simply had fun together. It was a reminder that even in tough times, joy and laughter are possible.
Here’s what I’ve learned about maintaining that youthful edge:
1. Embrace Change – Nothing stays the same in tech. Clinging to what’s familiar leads to stagnation. Stay flexible and open-minded.
2. Keep Your Curiosity – There’s always something new to discover. Approach each day with a beginner’s mind, whether it’s exploring new technology or finding fresh perspectives.
3. Make Time for Play – Prioritize experimentation without immediate pressure for results. Some of our best innovations came from simply asking “what if?”
4. Build a Playful Culture – Surround yourself with people who can balance serious work with joyful exploration. Create space for both responsibility and creativity.
Looking back, I’m not the same wide-eyed dreamer who started this company, but I’m also not a jaded cynic. I’m a mature adult with a youthful heart, balancing responsibility with playfulness, embracing change while staying true to core values.
So to all entrepreneurs: never lose your sense of wonder. Embrace your inner child, even as you take on adult responsibilities. Stay curious, stay flexible, and stay playful. Because it’s not just about building a successful business – it’s about building a life filled with purpose and joy. That’s the true fountain of youth.