For a lot of young people, they want to run ahead of themselves to “become successful” with very little patience for the journey which is actually the most important thing as an entrepreneur. But the problem with that mindset is that when life doesn’t go their way and they start growing old without achieving their dreams, they tend to become less and less passionate about their dreams.
For the older ones, they may be at a very certain age where they have begun to believe that they can never be successful entrepreneurs because age is now “against them.”
Well, this article is written for whatever category you find yourself – both old or young. I want to show you in this article that you are not too old to achieve that success you have always wanted and the value of being patient and taking your time when pursuing your dreams.
1. Lynne Brooks – Age at startup: 60 years
She started her company, Big Apple Greeter in 1992 as the first welcome visitor program in the United States. She says that she didn’t love her job and quit after 8 years and people didn’t quite understand her decision since she was already 56 and it appeared that time was already against her.
She also said, “I figured, if I didn’t have the courage to leave, I’d never another chance to do work I enjoyed.”
2. Ray Corkan – Age at startup: 60 years
Just after watching a loved one struggle in the healthcare system, Ray Corkan decided to purchase a Home Instead franchise in Houston. However, Ray had already had years of experience in running other successful businesses.
Having a number of national franchises, Home Instead helps provide excellent in-home care to senior citizens.
3. Wally Blume – Age at startup: 62 years
Having the most popular ice cream flavours in America, Wally Blume is the founder of Denali Flavours, Inc. and Moose Tracks. After Wally spent over two decades in the dairy business, he also spent a few years creating an ice cream business with a few partners that were with him as he grew the business. The company has over $85 million in annual sales.
4. Mary Tennyson – Age at startup: 63 years
After watching her 92-year-old mom stumble and fall, Mary Tennyson started StashAll instead of letting the idea pass her by. So, she began going all-in on it running an amazing business that has helped older people carry whatever they need very safely, securely, and stylishly, too.
5. Gail Dunn – Age at startup: 64 years
When she decided to help women struggling with the automobile industry, Gail Dunn had already had so many years of experience. So, at 64, she set up the Women’s Automotive Connection to provide service to women and also provide great automotive advice. Up to date, they still run boot camps and more.
One thing you have to understand, however, is that some (or a majority) of these guys actually had backgrounds in business even if they didn’t do anything extraordinary as youths. That should tell you that no knowledge is wasted. Everyone is different. Do your best now, and always hope for the best.