One of my Life Story clients has a small, hand-painted ceramic plate on display with the Dutch words: “We zijn met niks begonnen” or “We started with nothing.” It’s an ever-present reminder of just how far she’s come — from sewing her own clothes (out of necessity, not for fun!) in the early days of the business to years later selling the company for more than a billion dollars. At ninety years old, she’s adamant that her family’s story of humble beginnings must never be forgotten.
Check out this article from Inc. Magazine about how the “founding story can help you connect with investors, employees, and consumers — and, with any luck, keep them listening.”