Throughout my life, I’ve realized that everything—from the games I played in high school to the people I admire—has become part of a broader, more visual narrative. My experiences, relationships, and even the things I watch and play, like Fortnite, have become symbols that help me express who I am and give clarity to my life. These images, people, and stories aren’t just random—they’re semi-conscious symbols and ideals that I draw from to create the composite version of myself, especially as an entrepreneur.

My Entrepreneurial Canvas

When I first became an entrepreneur, the seed of inspiration had started from my grandfather, a business owner. He was the initial canvas upon which I started painting my entrepreneurial identity. I took elements from him—the way he led, the freedom he had—and used those traits as the base for what I wanted to build. But it didn’t stop there. Over time, I added to that canvas by pulling from others I admired, using their strengths to fill in the gaps and help me create my own version of what leadership and business could look like.

Strategically, I’ve always thought about how chess and the board game Risk drove my approach to business. In high school, these games taught me about thinking several moves ahead, managing risks, and adapting strategies on the fly. These principles shaped how I navigate business decisions, always considering the bigger picture and how each move might ripple into the next. Chess and Risk became metaphors for how I approached building my company.

My Living, Evolving Self Expression

People and experiences serve as my color palette, constantly influencing how I evolve in my personal and professional roles. A little leadership from one mentor, a sense of caring from another—it all mixes together. These external symbols help me shape myself, not as carbon copies, but as composites. I’ve taken inspiration from different people in my life, but instead of mimicking them, I use them to create my own blend.

It’s a living art form—one where I’m always painting and repainting based on the situation and who I need to be at that moment. It’s not just about emulating others; it’s about growth. By leaning into these symbols, I grow into new areas of myself, becoming the leader, entrepreneur, and person I want to be, one brushstroke at a time.

The Power of Metaphors and Symbols for Inspiration 

The symbols I draw from—whether it’s my grandfather’s business ownership, the strategic thinking of chess, or even characters from shows and games like Fortnite—aren’t just abstract concepts. They give me clarity in all aspects of my life. They are mirrors that reflect back parts of myself, allowing me to see things in ways I might not have noticed before.

Through these symbols, I’m able to express different facets of who I am. They allow me to be adaptive, finding new ways to navigate leadership, business, and personal growth. Whether it’s painting myself as a strategic business leader or drawing on the strength of those who came before me, these images and metaphors give me a sense of direction and purpose.

Crafting and Shaping the Expression of My Roles

Every role I step into—whether it's as a business owner, a leader, or simply someone trying to care for others—is something I’ve intentionally crafted. It’s like I’m working with an ever-evolving palette, painting my identity as I go. I see these roles not as rigid titles, but as fluid creations, where each decision and relationship colors the canvas differently.

By using these external references, I have a way to create who I need to be in different situations. It's an art form that allows me to develop myself not just in business, but in life as a whole.