I was on an interesting call last night with two young Zimbabwean entrepreneurs. US-based Ivy League graduates
They are setting up a financial services business in Zim. They wanted insights of what it takes
This is what I shared with them from my own experience building one

Firstly, humility. As a first time founder I need lots of help. Introductions. Navigating the nuances of business culture - in general it is not to be direct
Although I have huge conviction about my idea, progress is often in the hands of someone else

Secondly, patience. Things just take time. Much longer than I expected
For timelines, I imagine the longest reasonable timeframe, then I triple it
Over the years I have become refined in following up. Consistently. Aggressively. But politely. I just never ever give up

Finally, focus. On moving home from the UK, I was taken aback by the amount of need
For someone with an entrepreneurial mindset, that means opportunity.
I have focussed on what I know well. Then clearly defined one problem. Then relentlessly execute to deliver the solution

I concluded that the journey they are about to embark on is long and hard.
Oftentimes it feels like I am chewing glass whilst staring into an abyss sitting on hot coals
However, although it is difficult, it is by no means impossible