A few years back there was a commercial that involved a teacher instructing her young pupil how to draw. She said, “Stay between the lines because the lines are our friends”. If you are a “stay between the lines” person, then this piece is not for you. I a only writing for the free-spirited mavericks who challenge the status quo and love to lead change. If this is you, I have 10 super-gold nuggets for you. They were given to me years ago by a beloved mentor of mine – Bob Blazier. Here they are:
THE INTRAPRENEUR’S TEN COMMANDMENTS
Come to work each day willing to be fired.
Circumvent any orders aimed at stopping your dream. (I hope you have one)
Do any job needed to make your project work, regardless of your job description.
Find people to help you.
Follow your intuition about the people you choose, and work only with the best.
Work underground as long as you can – publicity triggers the corporate immune mechanism.
Never bet on a race unless you are running in it.
Remember it is easier to ask for forgiveness than for permission.
Be true to your goals, but be realistic about the ways to achieve them.
Honor your sponsors.
I have found these principles to be liberating, and they have helped me to thoroughly love my work – even at age 67. They can work for you too!
