5 Key Personal Growth Lessons to Thrive from EO Mexico City University Conference Breakdown

Jul 19

2 min read

Over the last ten years, I’ve been deeply involved with the Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO). There’s something special about these people. They are vulnerable, they share, they don’t judge, and they are highly successful.

Lesson 1: Shift from Business to Personal Development

In my early years with EO, my learnings were primarily business-focused. I was fascinated by the growth of companies led by these successful individuals. Through various events, I’ve formed many awesome relationships and received nuggets of information that have significantly impacted our team’s growth at Talent Edge. Recently, my interest has shifted to the depths of their personalities and the frameworks they use to govern their lives. As I get closer to these incredible people, my flaws begin to surface with vivid clarity.

Lesson 2: Embrace Change for Personal and Social Growth

Five years ago, I attended an EO University event in Mexico City. The theme was Metamorphosis, focusing on personal and social change. Initially, I was puzzled by the speaker list – a conductor, an ironman, a woman who worked with prisoners, a blind pianist, an economist, an orphan-turned-musician, and an author on Conscious Capitalism. Where were all the heavy-hitters in business?

Lesson 3: Find Inspiration in Diverse Perspectives

But as I listened, I was profoundly moved. Shiza Shadid’s story about her work with Malala and the struggle for women's education brought tears to my eyes. Her commitment to her mission inspired me to think about my own purpose. Salim Ismail’s talk on exponential change was equally enlightening. His key takeaway was that we’re not ready for the tremendous change ahead. It will take significant personal growth to re-wire our minds to adapt quickly. Those building for today are setting themselves up to fail tomorrow.

Lesson 4: Recognize and Address Personal Neglect

A week prior, my EO forum meeting made me realize I’ve been neglecting my own personal growth. This theme kept resonating throughout the conference, making it clear that personal development should be a priority.

Lesson 5: Leadership through Personal Mission and Preparation

One speaker, Alondra de la Parra, a conductor of classical music, initially didn’t pique my interest. But her charisma and leadership analogies to business were fascinating. She spoke about freeing the minds of creative people, building teams that care and respect each other, and leading with preparation and positivity. She emphasized how her personal mission, “to touch the lives of others through music,” drives every decision in her life. It made me reflect on my own decisions and how anchoring myself with a purpose might have led to better choices.