Mike Ford

Starting a company and developing a new product is like Tom Hanks in Castaway.

In the early stages you are locked away in a cave. In solitude talking to yourself. No one knows who you are, where you are or what you are doing. People with corporate jobs look at you a little differently — “Where are your khakis and golf shirt on casual day?”

Fire! I made fire! You encounter problems — severe challenges and minor issues. You creatively manage to solve them — sometimes ingeniously. You are alone so there is no one to know but you and your team. Some might say how awful. I think entrepreneurs relish the adventure regardless. If what you are doing is really worthy the world will know someday.

Shove off – There comes a point where you have to leave the island – launch your company and launch your product. You build your little raft, load up the team and head into the brutal surf of the sea. Death is a real possibility – “Wilson!” – tears will be shed. Success will depend on how well you prepared, your ability to react, the good graces of your clients and some luck.

Our raft is almost ready and we are discussing the tides. This note is my etching on the stone.