6 Lessons From a ‘Shark Tank’ Winner Essay Example
6 Lessons From a ‘Shark Tank’ Winner Essay Example

6 Lessons From a ‘Shark Tank’ Winner Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (998 words)
  • Published: September 1, 2018
  • Type: Essay
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After a decade of effort, I was privileged to win ABC's "Shark Tank" with my parenting solution that arose from a potty training issue in 2002. Specifically, I noticed during the process that my two-year-old son required a belt as his pants were too loose without a diaper.

After mastering potty training, he wanted to be independent but struggled with buckled belts due to his small hands. Despite the lack of belts for young children, I searched for a solution to his problem. When I shared my struggles with my sister, Danielle, she suggested we create our own solution. Thus, we created an easy-to-use line of belts with a patented one-handed closure designed for potty-training children (ages 2-12), preschoolers, students in uniforms, or anyone looking for a cute accessory. These belts also serve those with physical or cognitive challenges affecting hand dexterity.

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rong>Related: Launching in 2004, our business experienced steady growth until we hit a plateau following the 2008 recession.

Looking ahead to 2014, I had a thriving business with employees and increasing brand recognition. However, I realized that Myself Belts had the potential for even greater success. To amplify my product's exposure and secure a strategic partner for taking the brand to new heights, I had the idea to apply for Shark Tank. Though I knew the Sharks would be challenging, I hoped that my exceptional product and market potential would capture their attention. In retrospect, the Shark Tank experience was a valuable learning opportunity. These six lessons emerged from the experience:

1.

It is possible for BHAGs to become reality. During an Entrepreneurs’ Organization Accelerator Meeting, we were tasked with thinking about a Big Hair

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Audacious Goal (BHAG) to help us expand our business mindset. Initially, this exercise didn't seem practical to me, but my BHAG was to appear on the TV show Shark Tank. Though it seemed like a fanciful idea, it actually turned into a tangible opportunity.

Although having ambitious dreams can serve a purpose, the results are uncertain without taking action. Moreover, seeking assistance is an indication of strength, and I have consistently felt at ease doing so. Acknowledging my limitations in knowledge has proved advantageous in both my academic and career pursuits.

Seeking advice and soliciting assistance from knowledgeable individuals is a display of strength, not weakness. It has helped me gain insights on overseas manufacturing practices, form beneficial partnerships with other entrepreneurs, and realize the need for a partner to grow Myself Belts. The producers of Shark Tank recognized my business goals and honesty in my pitch video, which allowed me to advance through the audition process.

3. The value of entrepreneurial training.

Being an entrepreneur is a challenging endeavor, requiring constant attention to detail and strategic planning for business growth. Selected to pitch on the popular television show Shark Tank from a pool of 40,000 applicants was an unexpected honor and acknowledgment of my devotion to entrepreneurship.

Despite the challenges of preparing for a show, I maintained my determination by believing in my product and remaining optimistic about achieving success. My experience as an entrepreneur over the past decade enabled me to persist, rely on my intuition, and concentrate on making progress one step at a time towards reaching my objectives. Although the end goal may be constantly changing as a business owner, it's the minor accomplishments that

encourage me to continue working hard.

Shark Tank taught me to keep my eyes on the ultimate objective. This reality TV program is known for attracting individuals seeking fame, brand recognition, or entertainment. However, I appeared on Shark Tank for a genuine business purpose – to aid Myself Belts in achieving its maximum potential.

Despite my preparation with producers and co-workers, I remained practical and focused. However, when I found myself on the set dealing with viscous Sharks attacking me, I suddenly remembered that I had agreed to participate in a reality television show which would bring "entertainment" at my detriment. This inevitably led to a great deal of emotional vulnerability as I defended both myself and my business, explaining the rationale behind Myself Belts and striving to procure a partner. Despite not being fully prepared for this, it was all worth it in the end as I was fortunate enough to form a wonderful partnership with Daymond John.

5. The Importance of Patience

Myself Belts was founded a decade ago when the owner had a stroke of inspiration as a mother. Since then, she has delved into the world of retail, gaining invaluable knowledge and expertise. Despite occasional doubts about how to proceed with business growth in a struggling economy, she has remained persistent and open to new ideas. Over time, she has tried various strategies to boost brand recognition, all while keeping patient and focused on long-term success.

Following our appearance on Shark Tank, Myself Belts has experienced a renewed vigor. We have gained exposure to countless new customers, resulting in a joyful new "normal" level of sales. Furthermore, our collaboration with Daymond

John is propelling us forward, unlocking doors and generating fresh sales opportunities.

My patience has finally been rewarded because I am proud to say that I am from St. Louis as stated during my introduction on Shark Tank.

My experience on Shark Tank in St. Louis altered my outlook, despite hailing from Providence, Rhode Island on the East Coast. This is where I embarked on my entrepreneurial path and created Myself Belts.

Discovering mentors and entrepreneurial associations for assistance in St. Louis was crucial. The encouragement I received from the St. Louis community, both prior to and following my appearance on Shark Tank, has been incredibly gratifying.

Expressing gratitude to the community of St. Louis, I acknowledge that it has been an optimal location for initiating and expanding businesses, and it has become my official domicile.

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