The entrepreneurial path is not for the faint of heart. It requires resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Few exemplify this better than Garen Armstrong, a serial entrepreneur who has built, grown, and exited multiple successful companies. Garen’s journey—from overcoming personal setbacks to empowering communities through philanthropy—offers invaluable insights for anyone seeking to learn how to be an entrepreneur.
In this blog, we’ll explore Garen’s story, break down key lessons from his entrepreneurial success, and provide actionable steps for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Garen Armstrong: A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation
Before diving into how to be an entrepreneur, it’s essential to understand the man behind the success. Garen’s career spans various industries, from leading high-growth startups to his role as General Contractor with Shamrock Roofing & Construction. His ability to align corporate goals with personal visions has made him a trusted leader and mentor in business.
But Garen’s story is more than just a series of business wins. His life has been punctuated by challenges, including acute heart failure that now has him awaiting a heart transplant. Despite these obstacles, Garen continues to serve as a full-time father, philanthropist, and advocate for others, embodying the grit and determination every entrepreneur needs.
1. Define Your “Why”
Entrepreneurship starts with a purpose. For Garen, his “why” goes beyond personal success. He is driven by a passion for community service, as seen in his involvement with initiatives like Cars4Heroes, Roofs4Heroes, and the American Heart Association. These efforts highlight a key entrepreneurial principle:
Success is not just about profit; it’s about creating a meaningful impact.
Aspiring entrepreneurs should take the time to define their “why.” What motivates you? What value will your business bring to others? When you have a clear purpose, it becomes easier to navigate the inevitable challenges along the way.
2. Invest in People
Garen’s leadership style centers on empowering his team. He attributes much of his success to his “investing in people” approach, which involves surrounding himself with talented individuals who align with his vision.
As an entrepreneur, your ability to build and lead a strong team can make or break your business. Consider these tips:
- Hire for Alignment: Look for team members who share your values and understand your mission.
- Provide Growth Opportunities: Empower employees by offering training, mentorship, and chances to take on leadership roles.
- Cultivate Trust: Foster an environment where open communication and collaboration thrive.
Remember, a successful entrepreneur doesn’t do it alone. Your team is your greatest asset.
3. Learn from Setbacks
Entrepreneurship is not a linear journey. Like Garen, who has faced significant lows alongside his highs, you must be prepared to encounter obstacles. What sets successful entrepreneurs apart is their ability to learn and grow from these experiences.
Here are some strategies for overcoming setbacks:
- Reframe Failure: View challenges as opportunities to refine your approach.
- Stay Adaptable: Be willing to pivot when necessary to meet changing market demands.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on mentors, peers, or professional networks for guidance.
Garen’s resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges serves as a reminder that persistence is key to long-term success.
4. Embrace Servant Leadership
A hallmark of Garen’s entrepreneurial philosophy is servant leadership. By focusing on the needs of others—whether it’s his employees, customers, or community—he has built a legacy of trust and respect.
Servant leadership involves:
- Prioritizing Others: Place the needs of your team and customers at the forefront of your decisions.
- Leading by Example: Demonstrate integrity, hard work, and accountability in all you do.
- Giving Back: Use your success to support meaningful causes and uplift others.
For Garen, this approach has translated into impactful initiatives like Put Unity in Community Scholarship, which fosters educational opportunities for future leaders.
5. Take Action
At its core, entrepreneurship is about execution. While vision and planning are essential, they mean little without action. Garen’s proven track record of building and scaling businesses reflects his ability to act decisively and strategically.
If you’re wondering how to be an entrepreneur, start with these actionable steps:
- Develop a Business Plan: Outline your goals, target market, and strategies for success.
- Start Small: Test your ideas on a small scale before committing significant resources.
- Stay Consistent: Progress may be slow at first, but persistence will yield results.
The Heart of Entrepreneurship
Garen Armstrong’s journey underscores the essence of entrepreneurship: balancing ambition with purpose, resilience with adaptability, and success with service. Whether he’s leading a team, mentoring others, or championing community causes, Garen exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader in business.
If you’re ready to embark on your own entrepreneurial path, take a page from Garen’s playbook. Define your purpose, invest in people, and stay committed to growth—even in the face of adversity. With the right mindset and determination, you, too, can achieve success and make a lasting impact.
Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey? Embrace the principles of servant leadership and resilience, and take your first step today.
