The Magic of Mentorship: Lessons from Working with Michael Gerber

In the world of entrepreneurship, there are names that resonate with timeless wisdom, people who have dedicated their lives to teaching, mentoring, and uplifting others to reach their full potential. One of those giants in my life has been Michael Gerber. It’s been 14 years since our paths first crossed, and in that time, Michael has taught me not just the art of business but the essence of what it means to live a purpose-driven life.

Just recently, I had the privilege of reconnecting with Michael in Houston. What was meant to be a quick toast to celebrate my new book turned into a marathon session of inspiration, conversation, and laughter that went well past midnight. Sitting across the table from him, I realized how profoundly his teachings have influenced my journey—and continue to do so. Our reunion wasn’t just a catch-up; it was a masterclass in entrepreneurship, legacy, and the power of big thinking.

The Power of Never Playing Small

One of the first pieces of advice I ever received from Michael was, “Never play small. If you’re going to do something, do it all the way.” That might sound simple, but think about how often we hold back. Whether it’s fear of failure, lack of confidence, or simply the comfort of playing it safe, we sometimes find ourselves limiting our own potential. Michael’s philosophy isn’t about achieving small goals. It’s about creating a vision so big that it scares you a little—and then committing wholeheartedly to making it a reality.

That night in Houston, as we reminisced and planned, Michael reminded me of the importance of never playing small. He looked at me and said, “Dreams are meant to be stretched beyond our limits. The moment you settle, you’ve lost sight of what could be.” This resonated with me deeply because I know, just as he does, that life is too short to live within limitations. For any entrepreneur reading this, take this lesson to heart: If your goals don’t challenge you, they won’t change you.

A Journey of Learning and Growing

Reflecting on our 14-year journey together, I’m reminded of the countless lessons Michael has imparted to me—lessons that have become foundational pillars in my life and business. Here are a few that stand out:

1. Systems Are Everything

Michael’s iconic book, The E-Myth, revolutionized the way entrepreneurs view their businesses. He taught me that success doesn’t come from working harder; it comes from working smarter. Building a business is about creating systems that can run independently, allowing you to focus on growth rather than being trapped in the day-to-day grind.

“If your business relies on you, you don’t have a business—you have a job,” Michael once told me. This advice has saved me from countless hours of burnout. Creating systems gives you the freedom to step back and let your business evolve and grow.

2. Embrace Failure as Part of the Process

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned from Michael is to embrace failure. Failure is not the end—it’s a step toward success. Michael once shared a story about one of his early ventures that didn’t go as planned. Instead of feeling defeated, he used the experience as a stepping stone, learning from his mistakes and applying those insights to future endeavors.

He told me, “Failure isn’t a roadblock; it’s a detour. Learn from it, adjust, and keep moving.” That perspective has changed the way I approach challenges in my own business. Instead of seeing setbacks as defeats, I view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

3. Legacy Over Profit

Michael has always emphasized the importance of building a legacy rather than chasing short-term gains. This is a concept that many entrepreneurs overlook. We often get so caught up in the pursuit of profit that we forget to ask ourselves, “What kind of impact am I leaving?”

During our conversation, Michael said, “Profit is a byproduct of purpose. If you focus on making a difference, the money will follow.” This advice has guided me in every venture I undertake. It’s not just about financial success; it’s about creating something meaningful that will last long after I’m gone.

4. Stay True to Your Vision

Over the years, I’ve seen many entrepreneurs lose sight of their vision. They start with big dreams, but along the way, they get swayed by external pressures, criticism, or the temptation to take shortcuts. Michael has always reminded me of the importance of staying true to my vision, no matter how challenging the journey might be.

“Your vision is your North Star,” he once told me. “As long as you stay focused on that, you’ll never lose your way.” This advice has helped me navigate difficult decisions and remain committed to my purpose, even in the face of adversity.

Teasing Big Things to Come

As we sat there in Houston, Michael and I talked about our new book and the exciting projects we’re working on together. There’s a synergy between us, a shared vision for helping entrepreneurs break through their limitations and reach new heights. We’re brewing up something big, something that will push boundaries and redefine what it means to be an entrepreneur in today’s world.

Stay tuned—big things are coming.