Oftentimes, the co-founders and other leaders at smaller firms find themselves intrigued by the idea of merging with an enterprise that has competent management teams with clearer roles. But after a merger, they are afraid of stepping back from the work outside their zones, because they used to feel partially responsible for every decision made at their predecessor companies. Time and again, we find that those who are able to push their fears aside and find and cultivate their “zone of genius” enjoy much more success and satisfaction.
A firm’s co-founders should thus be able to step away from managing every decision at the office and instead focus on envisioning and growing their advisory practices. An executive who has spent most of her career in a marketing role in her firm, for instance, can transition to lead her company’s strategy. Another example is when a founder of successful RIA is able to pursue his passion of developing the firm’s culture by dedicating his time to helping others tap into their genius.
The most difficult part is taking that first step. It is often easier to keep doing tomorrow what you are doing today. It is scary to rely on others to do things you previously handled yourself. But those who have the courage to move forward find that living in their genius more often is an amazing experience that benefits them, their clients and their teams. Who wouldn’t want to live and work effortlessly?
Ron Rubin is vice chairman; managing director, Mid-Atlantic region; and chief cultural officer for The Colony Group. Jennifer Geoghegan is a principal and chief strategy officer at The Colony Group.