The Wimmer Values: Success in Seven Simple Steps
I had the opportunity recently to meet Noel Lourdes, the Managing Director at Kemtron Gaskets & Seals, at a Pine Hub Entrepreneurs Toolkit event. Noel wears an impressive suit and carries a history of successful leadership behind him, having acted in a number of directorial positions for several years now. I asked Noel if he could share with me his first-hand advice for finding such renown, and he provided for me a brief list along with the name Per Wimmer. This was when I first encountered the Seven Wimmer Values.
Pushing boundaries and making history for several decades now, Per Wimmer is an entrepreneur and an adventurer with an enthusiasm for turning dreams into reality. His seven values, those that Noel had shared with me, are Wimmer’s own tools for success as he pursues the title of the first private Dane in space. And these values have brought him far – to the peak of Mount Everest, in fact. What makes the Wimmer Values particularly notable is that they are not complex or inaccessible. Rather, any entrepreneur can apply them to his or her own business and benefit. As such, I am eager to share these core principles.
Wimmer Value One| Think out of the box
Creativity and innovation are vital to entrepreneurial success. The world evolves endlessly, and what is valued one day will be forgotten by the next. Successful entrepreneurs understand that they cannot be resistant to this truth. Instead they embrace it, allowing their products and services to grow with society. They are open to change and allow themselves to be inspired by the universe’s tendency to fluctuate. Adaptation is not a weakness, but rather a willingness to innovate.
Wimmer Value Two | Follow your heart and passion
When a person is passionate about their work, it shows. They put in the time and effort to deliver the highest quality goods and services. They seek out new experiences, new understanding and new ideas. They deliver results with enthusiasm and excitement. When an entrepreneur truly takes pride in their product, consumers are far more receptive and business soars.
Additionally, passion is a powerful motivator for any professional. Long hours of hard work are much less daunting when the result has significance to the individual. It can be tempting to forgo heart when presented with material gain, but a large effort is only sustainable if there is joy in the process.
Wimmer Value Three | Focus and execution
Work without a goal is unlikely to reward. A goal without pursuit is unattainable. To succeed in their field, an entrepreneur must be able to both define their objective and take the steps necessary to reach it. If the current direction of a company does not support the overarching goal of its employees, then there needs to be a change in either its focus or its execution. Don’t spend precious time on projects that don’t align with the business’s intent. Act with purpose and precision.
Wimmer Value Four | Time discipline
There is only so much time in the day, and successful entrepreneurs know how to make the most of each minute. Time discipline requires restraint, commitment and a realistic approach to scheduling. Establish clear priorities, know how much time each action will take and accept that no one can do everything. Entrepreneurs must be willing to turn down invitations when they are short on time, but also to accept priceless opportunities regardless of their fears. They understand the value of their time and they are keenly aware of how they spend it.
Wimmer Value Five | Teamwork
No man is an island. Success is a collaborative effort, the result of unique minds coming together and working towards a common objective. An entrepreneur should know their strengths and identify the value in those around them. Delegate tasks, and never be afraid to ask for the help of colleagues or friends. A fresh pair of eyes may see new solutions to a problem. As Wimmer reminds, “the sum of the parts is greater than the individual parts alone.”
Wimmer Value Six | Take calculated risks
While it is true that big risks can have big rewards, entrepreneurs should be discerning about the risks they take. Always know what stands to be lost and question whether the potential benefits are worthwhile. Profit is enticing, but the loss of integrity, respect or sustainability is not worth gamble. Before making a major decision, a professional should be sure they have considered what is at stake. Never act just for the sake of acting.
Wimmer Value Seven | Inspire others
If an entrepreneur reaches their goal, that is one person’s success. But if along the way they motivate their neighbours to pursue their own objectives, then the entire community can thrive. Connect with those around you and encourage them to chase greatness. While a professional’s work may be forgotten, they can continue to achieve through those they have inspired.
Feeling inspired? Learn more about Per Wimmer’s work at http://www.wimmerspace.com/.
Megan Schrader is a writer and content creator for Pine Hub. She graduated with honours from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, receiving her BSc in Psychology in 2018. Megan has since emigrated to Ireland and settled in Dublin, where she enjoys discovering the local culture. She is passionate about writing, art, coffee and all things psychology.
