Michael Durach believes in intuition and speed in decision-making, stating, "Trust your gut. Take fast decisions." He also provides a practical approach to risk assessment: "Ask yourself: Is it killing me or just hurting me? Consult with people to prevent you from being killed. You have the responsibility not to create chaos." Gamze Cizrelli also suggests taking "manageable risks," and therefore a balanced approach to decision-making that involves bold moves without reckless abandon.

Rainer Becker offers additional straightforward advice, "Don’t overthink," highlighting the dangers of paralysis by analysis in fast-paced entrepreneurial environments. Henry McGovern emphasizes the importance of proactive leadership with, "Get your head in. And lead." This call to action underlines the necessity of taking charge and guiding teams through challenges. Tom Barton notes that "Confidence breeds confidence," illustrating how decisive leadership can inspire and motivate teams, fostering a culture of confidence and action when it is most needed.

The importance of authenticity and adhering to core values is crucial in crises. Michael Durach advises entrepreneurs to "Be yourself. Don’t mimic somebody else." This emphasizes the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's unique identity rather than imitating others. John Eckbert stresses the importance of authenticity "Under pressure, you need to become your most authentic self."

Mette Lykke reinforces the importance of values, especially during tough times, stating, "Stick with your values, especially in crises." This principle ensures that entrepreneurs remain grounded and consistent in their actions and decisions. Kathy Johnston agrees with the need for passion and alignment with personal values, urging, "Make sure you do what you’re passionate about. Follow your values."

We have learned about the pivotal role that relationships and people play in the entrepreneurial journey from doubt to drive. Michael Durach advises, "Strengthen the right partnerships and get out of the wrong ones. Give your trust first, and you will get it back."

Tom Barton offers practical advice on choosing business partners: "Find yourself a good partner, but don’t take your best friend." Kathy Johnston stresses that effective communication is essential for fostering strong, collaborative relationships in difficult situations, "Be proactive and talk to your shareholders and teams."

Rainer Becker emphasizes cultural understanding, stating, "Understand the culture. Don’t try to change it, make the best out of it for you." This advice underscores the importance of adapting to and leveraging existing cultural frameworks rather than imposing changes.

We have extracted that the willingness to listen & learn, adapt, and innovate is essential in crises. Especially Julian Metcalfe offered practical advice, urging entrepreneurs to "Do your homework," and emphasizing that "From trial and error comes great glory." He also stresses the importance of data and customer feedback, advising, "Listen to data and your customers."

John Eckbert emphasizes this importance of listening, stating, "Listen well. Connect with your guests." Effective communication and feedback are crucial for continuous improvement and innovation. Henry McGovern suggests leveraging networks in times of crisis, advising, "In a crisis, call everyone you know for advice." This highlights the value of collective wisdom and diverse perspectives in navigating challenges.

Tom Barton reflects on the role of mistakes in learning, noting, "Mistakes shape you in life. It’s only a mistake if you make it twice." Michael Durach adds to this "Don’t make the same mistake again. Learn from the former generation."

Self-care and looking after one's well-being is essential, especially in difficult situations. Tom Barton captures the essence of this learning for him with, "Look after yourself and you will be better in anything."

Kathy Johnston provides a series of practical tips for self-care. She advocates for patience, advising, "More patience brings you to better places. Take 24 hours to think about it." This approach allows for thoughtful decision-making and reduced impulsivity. She underscores also the fundamental importance of rest: "Sleep well." Kathy also suggests having a plan for difficult times, recommending entrepreneurs to "Have an SOP for crappy moments.“ This strategy ensures resilience during tough periods. Recognizing the value of professional support, Kathy advises finding a "work therapist," to get emotional support on our entrepreneurial journey.

Gamze Cizrelli recommends to "Make your personal 'SWOT' analyses." This self-reflective tool helps you to understand your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and will lead to resilience and regaining drive.

Our interviews have consistently emphasized the importance of self-belief, maintaining a positive outlook, and managing one's ego to turn around difficult situation back into success. Henry McGovern inspires confidence with his simple yet powerful advice: "Believe in you because the ‘Good Guys gotta win’." This mantra underscores the importance of self-belief and integrity in the pursuit of success. Gamze Cizrelli offers another resilience strategy, advising, "If you fail, take your jackets, and move on," and, "Never lose your hope." They both emphasize the importance of perseverance and maintaining hope even or especially in the face of setbacks.

Clive Schlee encourages self-reflection and striving for personal excellence, asking, "What would the best version of yourself do now?" This question prompts entrepreneurs to align their actions with their highest potential. His partner at ITSU Julian Metcalfe highlights the ever-present nature of opportunities, reminding us that "Opportunity for success is always around the corner." And therefore, fostering a positive and hopeful mindset which is crucial for navigating entrepreneurial challenges.