The Simple Power of Pausing: What Happens When You Take A Step Back?

Startup. Bootstrap. Pitch. Grow. Exit (or fail). Repeat. That’s been my path for as long as I remember and now, with over $400M in exits, I was where I always dreamed I would be: at the helm of my own angel investment firm, finding and funding the next generation of world-changing tech startups. Did it look how I expected? Yes and no. I am a realist, I love risk, and I embrace obstacles and challenges. So I am not one to expect that the road to anything worthwhile will be an easy one. And I know the very nature of tech (and markets) is to face rapid and sometimes sudden change. As a seasoned tech angel investor, I have always been immersed in the fast-paced world of startups and innovation. The constant movement and relentless pursuit of growth are the norms – and I thrive off that. So it was a surprise even to me when I recently decided to take a step back from the frenzy and spend this year in the picturesque city of Florence, Italy, along with my family. This intentional pause allowed me to gain a fresh perspective on the dynamics of the tech industry, the value of reflection, and the immense power that lies within the act of stepping back. Here’s why.

The Beauty of Florence and the Art of Living Slowly

Slow down. I’ve counseled CEOs, founders, and even myself to do it. But it’s maddeningly hard to do. Living amidst the extraordinary beauty of Florence, a city steeped in history, culture, and art, was an experience that taught me to appreciate the art of living slowly. The tranquil streets, the breathtaking architecture, and the serene atmosphere created an environment conducive to introspection and contemplation. In the midst of this timeless city, I found the space and clarity I needed to see the way I approached my investments in a whole new light.

Embracing Reflection and Recharging Creativity

One of the most significant benefits of taking a step back was the opportunity to reflect deeply on my past investments and strategies. The break allowed me to objectively analyze my successes and failures, identifying patterns and insights that I may have missed in the relentless grind of the investment world. This self-reflection gave me a renewed sense of purpose, recharged my creativity, and helped me identify and appreciate new possibilities and emerging trends.

Strengthening Relationships and Expanding Networks

To make your world bigger you have to make your world bigger. While the world of tech investment often emphasizes fast-paced networking and deal-making, my year in Florence has only emphasized the value of building authentic, lasting relationships. Through meaningful interactions with local entrepreneurs, artists, and intellectuals, I gained a broader perspective on life and business. Engaging in conversations beyond the realm of startups and technology has deepened my understanding of the world – as it relates to business and to life.

Rediscovering the Essence of Innovation

Look up the Medici family if you want to get inspired by how individuals can transform their communities and leave a lasting legacy. Living in Florence, where artistic and scientific innovation have intertwined for centuries, has reignited my passion for investing in companies that push the boundaries of creativity and ingenuity. The city’s rich history reminded me that true innovation often emerges from both a deep appreciation of tradition and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking. This revelation reinforced my belief in supporting visionary entrepreneurs who are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on society.

The Power of Pausing in a Fast-Paced World

The world isn’t going to slow down. You have to do it for yourself. I’ve always hated the way we glorify constant hustle and celebrate non-stop “productivity,” and I understand that taking a step back may seem counterintuitive. However, as someone whose mind never stops and whose drive to innovate and create is relentless, my year-long pause in Florence has shown me the profound value of slowing down, reflecting, and recharging. Adjusting the way I approach the daily demands of the investment ecosystem allowed me to gain a fresh perspective, strengthen important relationships, reconnect with the essence of innovation, and ultimately enhance the quality of my investment decisions. It’s your turn to consider how the power of pausing could be a catalyst for your personal growth, enhanced decision-making, and ultimately, a more fulfilling entrepreneurial journey. Because, after all, you’ve got to enjoy the ride.