## The Lessons I Learned from Italy on Becoming a Better Entrepreneur
*Inspiration and ideas for being a better entrepreneur can come from everywhere, not just the business world. I moved to the south of Italy (Calabria) last year, and I’ve picked up a few lessons that I’m now applying to how I do business. Maybe they’ll help you, too.*
### 1. Connecting people is good karma
– We’ve all heard the adage “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” and nowhere is that more true than in Italy.
– Italians have a natural inclination to connect people and help each other out.
– Building genuine connections and helping others without expecting anything in return creates trust and paves the way for future business opportunities.
### 2. Embrace the art of patience
– In Italy, they say *piano, piano* (slowly, slowly). While it can be nerve-wracking at times, there is beauty in allowing things to unfold in their own time.
– Take the time to nurture relationships and let business opportunities develop naturally.
– Building personal connections with potential clients or partners is crucial for long-term success.
### 3. Find a way when faced with obstacles
– Italians are known for their resourcefulness and ability to find solutions even in seemingly impossible situations.
– As a business owner, you may encounter challenges that feel insurmountable, but taking a step back, gaining a fresh perspective, and seeking advice from others can help you find creative solutions.
– Sometimes, stepping away from the problem and approaching it from a different angle is all it takes to break through the barriers.
### 4. Strike a balance between work and leisure
– Italians have mastered the concept of *la dolce far niente* (the sweetness of doing nothing), emphasizing the importance of enjoying life.
– Americans often work themselves to exhaustion, neglecting personal time and self-care.
– Prioritize self-care, take breaks, and spend quality time away from work to recharge and find inspiration.
– By balancing work and leisure, you’ll avoid burnout and foster a healthier lifestyle.
### 5. Share your unique story
– Italians take pride in their culture and heritage, and their stories hold great significance.
– Your story matters in business too. Sharing your journey, values, and passions with clients helps create a connection and establish trust.
– Highlighting your own experiences and how they relate to your business can make you stand out from the competition and attract like-minded clients.
### 6. Embrace outside influences
– Italy’s history of being influenced by various cultures and languages shows the benefits of embracing outside influences.
– Don’t shy away from seeking inspiration from other industries, attending conferences, or learning from fellow entrepreneurs.
– By staying open to new ideas and different perspectives, you can enhance your own business strategies and create a unique and successful approach.
Italy has taught me valuable lessons on how to be a better entrepreneur. From the power of connections and patience to the importance of balance and embracing outside influences, there is much we can learn from the Italian way of life. By incorporating these lessons into your own business practices, you can set yourself up for success and foster a more fulfilling and prosperous entrepreneurial journey.
## References
– [Image 1 Source](https://www.allbusiness.com/media-library/u-s-entrepreneurs-can-learn-a-lot-from-italy.jpg)
– [Image 2 Source](https://www.allbusiness.com/media-library/young-entrepreneur-sightseeing-in-italy.jpg)
– Photo credit: [Sofia Alberti on Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/@sofia_alberti)
