There is so much to learn from Branson as an entrepreneur, but there were a few things that stood out to me. According to Branson, entrepreneurs need to be good self-motivators. Branson advises, “It’s important to understand what your main motivation is so that you can focus your efforts on reaching those goals. Then structure your job – perhaps by delegating some work – so that you can spend as much time as possible turning this energy to your company’s advantage.” He really emphasizes that money shouldn’t be a main motivator and that if it is, you shouldn’t be in business at all.

I believe that being an entrepreneur means making the impossible, possible and innovating no matter where you start from. It was really interesting to see how Branson shared this ideal. He says, “... In life you’ve got to dream big by setting yourself seemingly impossible challenges. You then have to catch up with them. You can make what people believe is impossible possible if you set big enough targets. Flying from New York to Australia in, say, two hours. Can we do it in our lifetimes? I’m determined to try. If you don’t dream, nothing happens. And we like to dream big.” We’re dreaming big at Ashley Chloe by seeking to change the headphone user experience and move headphones into new spaces. We’re taking headphones out of a traditional perspective and into new spaces in wearable and fashion tech to make an impact on people’s day to day living. Richard Branson is an inspiration to us with his big dreams and even bigger achievements.

In your first year of running a business, your only goal should be surviving. Branson has said this again and again and I 100% agree. Before you go big with your company, you need to give it everything you’ve got and get through that first year. Branson has proven this theory many times with his numerous businesses.

When examining investors, Branson suggests that you ask yourself, “Will this person or group give us the space and time we need to build a great business?” A “dictatorial financial partner” can ruin the spirit and enthusiasm of entrepreneurs, so ensure that your investor is someone who will let you run your company without getting in the way or questioning every decision you make. Similarly, I believe that you need to raise the right capital from the right investor. Investors can bring valuable assets to a company in addition to funds and it’s critical to pay attention to what they have to offer. The most important partnership you have is the one with your staff. Branson says that if you get that right, your chances of success are much higher and I couldn’t agree more.

Moving Forward

Richard Branson continues to bring innovation to the startup world. In September 2014, Branson announced his investment in the drone company, 3D Robotics, stating, "It's amazing to see what a little flying object with a GoPro attached can do. Before they came along the alternative was an expensive helicopter and crew. I'm really excited about the potential 3D Robotics sees in drones. They can do a lot of good in the world, and I hope this affordable technology will give many more people the chance to see our beautiful planet from such a powerful perspective."

Two years later, we can’t help but wonder if wearables might be the next big thing in Branson’s portfolio. Branson has a habit of entering industries and transforming them completely, kind of like what Ashley Chloe is looking to do with the Helix Cuff.

On Valentine’s Day, I saw a public post Richard Branson made about his appreciation for the love of his wife, Joan. I was so touched by this and was honored to have hung out with Branson and his wife on Necker Island and to witness their love first-hand. Meeting Richard Branson in the British Virgin Islands was an incredible moment in my life and I am so thankful for the many things I’ve learned from him.

Are you an upcoming entrepreneur? Let us know in the comments what your best piece of advice is for fellow startups.

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