Retired Army Sergeant Frank Diaz draws upon his extensive military background to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. With 34 years of service, including deployments to Iraq during the Persian Gulf War and counter-terrorism missions with the Department of Defense, Diaz brings a wealth of experience to his successful food truck business on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. Here are five key lessons from Diaz’s military career that have guided him as an entrepreneur:
- Maintain a Can-Do Attitude
Diaz’s military tenure instilled in him a resilient mindset characterized by a “can-do” attitude. He approaches business challenges with the same determination and adaptability honed on the battlefield. Whether faced with last-minute customer requests or unforeseen obstacles, Diaz remains steadfast in his commitment to finding solutions and delivering results.
- Develop a Strategy to Out-Match the Competition
Drawing on his military training in planning and strategy, Diaz emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of the competition. He applies the principles of reconnaissance and analysis to identify market trends and capitalize on opportunities for innovation. By constantly assessing competitors and refining his approach, Diaz ensures that his business remains at the forefront of the industry.
- Draw on All Available Resources
Diaz leverages a diverse range of resources, from business briefings to support groups, to inform his entrepreneurial decisions. Recognizing the value of collective wisdom, he actively seeks guidance and insights from various sources. Diaz understands that no single source has all the answers, but by tapping into multiple channels, he gains valuable perspectives that inform his strategic initiatives.
- Make Your Bed Every Morning
Emphasizing the importance of discipline, Diaz advocates for establishing a consistent morning routine. Inspired by the words of former Navy Admiral William H. McRaven, he underscores the power of small daily habits in fostering personal accountability and productivity. By starting each day with a simple yet meaningful task, such as making the bed, Diaz sets a positive tone for the day ahead and reinforces the value of discipline in achieving success.
- Demonstrate Loyalty to Your Team
As a strong advocate for hiring veterans, Diaz values the discipline, loyalty, and teamwork instilled by military service. He prioritizes creating a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique skills and perspectives. By fostering a culture of camaraderie and mutual respect, Diaz cultivates a cohesive team dynamic that drives organizational success.
In conclusion, Frank Diaz’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the enduring principles gleaned from his military career. By embracing a can-do attitude, strategic mindset, resourcefulness, discipline, and loyalty, Diaz exemplifies the qualities of a successful leader and innovator. Aspiring entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from Diaz’s experiences and apply these valuable lessons to their own ventures, paving the way for long-term growth and prosperity.
