We had the good fortune of connecting with Larry Zahn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Larry, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
This is a tough question and one, quite honestly, I’ve wrestled with myself in my clothing company venture. I think it all boils down to your measurement of success, why you are in it and what you want out of it. This could apply to most things in life, but I’ll use my business as a example. It’s crucial to surround yourself with a small circle of friends that encourage you, but also can give you constructive criticism you need sometime. Equally important is loving what you do and doing it for you. Tenacity is a great virtue that can fuel you to success, but can also run you into the ground with failure. Listen to those close to you, as they have valuable insight you should at least consider. As I mentioned before, success is very subjective to the person. When I started my business it was just intended to be a little side hustle/hobby for fun. My first measure of success was seeing someone out somewhere with a shirt on that I did not give them. Now that the business has got some more traction, I’m finding myself in a dilemma right now as to where it goes from here. Fortunately, this business is easy to sustain with little investment or overhead costs. I think the bottom line for me is realizing the difference between staying small, not depending on sales, limiting my timing and having fun in the process vs. significant risk and investments, more significant time investments and…yes…losing some of the fun. I’ll keep you posted. The important thing is to recognize the options. You don’t necessarily ever have to give up, maybe just reel it in a bit and realize it’s a hobby or supplemental income, not something that can economically support your lifestyle.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I would say the most important things that set me apart from others and fuel me are tenacity, innovation and initiative. I’ve also always understood the importance of customer experience and delivering a high quality product. These are the not so secret ingredients that most people know about, but can’t always deliver on.

Nothing in life has come to me, I’ve come to it. I always tell people that you don’t get anything if you don’t ask or move on an opportunity in front of you. It’s important to realize and grasp opportunities. Innovate and create your own business ideas or learn how to integrate them with an already successful business. Network and collaborate with others. It’s amazing what resources you will find and the doors that will open when you build relationships with other entrepreneurs.

Overcome challenges and obstacles by minimizing them through due diligence, foresight, educating yourself, engaging others for assistance and staying innovative to adjust or stay ahead of the pack.

What can I say about Initiative. You likely have it or you don’t. If you need someone else to motivate you then I suggest you refrain from starting your own business.

Hire and surround yourself in your business with people who share those core principles, but also realize your weaknesses and hire candidates who bring strength in those areas. Allow others to round out your business and feel empowered in their positions to bring value to the organization. Don’t be afraid to get help or be of the mindset that you must be in control of all aspects of the business. Leverage strengths across the board to become a powerhouse.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite things about Phoenix/AZ is the diversity of the climate/terrain. I would definitely take them for that relatively short drive up to Flagstaff or Greer to go from the desert to the higher elevations in the pine forests to go snowboarding or mountain biking. Probably a ride to Prescott to stay at the haunted hotel, enjoy some drinks on Whiskey Row and go kayaking.

Just about 30 minutes outside of Phoenix we’d go to Lake Pleasant to go wake surfing and soak up the rays.

The other great part about Phoenix is the night life. A good spot for guests is Old Town Scottsdale. Lost of shops to visit and bars/restaurants within walking distance of each oher.

Sedona for sure as well. Everyone loves Sedona!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom Doris and my brother Doug for sure. My mom struggled being a single mother, but she taught me independence, work ethic, integrity, tenacity and how to power through things, even when life is not at it’s best.

My brother because he has been both a brother and father mentor throughout my entire life. My brother’s view on education, finances, business, careers, etc. has definitely steered me in the right direction. I’m not sure he is fully aware, but I have always watched him in the background and learned a lot from him.

I appreciate both of them tremendously and attribute their support and wisdom to my own successes.

Website: http://www.tig3r12.com

Instagram: @tig3r12

Linkedin: Larry Zahn

Twitter: @R12Tig3

Facebook: @tig3r12

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