IN the world of entrepreneurship, countless virtues and values are celebrated. Determination, focus, perseverance, and self-motivation frequently top the list.
However, one quality often overlooked is the power of obsession. While it can be a double-edged sword, the focused intensity of obsession often serves as a driving force that enables individuals to break boundaries, innovate and ultimately succeed in their ventures.
This instalment seeks to unpack the role of obsession in the entrepreneurial landscape, arguing that it is possibly the most important ethic above all others.
Understanding obsession
At its core, obsession can be defined as an intense and compulsive preoccupation with a particular idea, goal, or passion.
While many might view obsession negatively, associating it with unhealthy fixations, it can also manifest as a profound commitment to a vision.
In entrepreneurship, this often translates to a relentless pursuit of success, where the individual is so invested in their idea that they are willing to overcome significant obstacles.
Obsession also means postponing the acquisition of wants in the short to medium term until such time critical mass in achieving laid out objectives is well underway.
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The positive aspects of obsession
Visionary drive: Obsession fuels the visionary aspect of entrepreneurship. Founders, who are deeply passionate about their ideas often possess clarity of purpose that can be contagious. This clarity allows them to articulate their vision in a compelling way, inspiring others — be it team members, investors, or customers, to join them on their journey.
Resilience against adversity: The path of entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges. It is no easy walk in the park. Oft times, an obsessed entrepreneur is more resilient in the face of setbacks. When failure is not just a possibility but a stepping stone toward a greater goal, the intense commitment derived from obsession can provide the mental fortitude needed to push through hardships.
In-depth knowledge and expertise: Obsession fosters a deeper understanding of a particular industry or niche. Entrepreneurs, who immerse themselves in their passions, tend to accumulate knowledge and insights that others might overlook. This expertise can translate into innovative solutions, better products, and an understanding of market needs, that set them apart from competitors.
Unwavering commitment: While determination and perseverance are vital, obsession elevates this commitment to a whole new and different level. It encourages entrepreneurs to work beyond the typical limits of time and effort. This often translates into longer hours, a willingness to learn continuously, and a drive to improve that is unparalleled.
Creativity and innovation: Obsession can lead to ground-breaking innovations. When entrepreneurs are consumed by their ideas, they often think outside the box, leading to creative problem-solving and unique approaches that can disrupt markets. In fact, obsessive entrepreneurs know that there are no more boxes to think out from.
Balance between obsession, values
While obsession can be a powerful tool, it is essential to recognise that it must be balanced with other virtues, such as ethical considerations, work-life balance, and well-being.
An obsession that leads to burnout, damaged relationships, or unethical practices ultimately hinders success rather than promote it. Successful entrepreneurs often cultivate a healthy obsession — one that drives them toward their goals while remaining mindful of the broader impact of their actions.
Ethical considerations: An obsessed entrepreneur must remain vigilant about the ethical implications of their actions. Obsession should not lead to a disregard for integrity. History has shown us that the best entrepreneurs build businesses that reflect their values, ensuring that their relentless pursuit of success does not come at the expense of others.
Work-life balance: The drive that comes from obsession leads to neglect in other areas of life. It is crucial for entrepreneurs to maintain a balance that allows for personal relationships and mental well-being. Sustainable success is achieved through a holistic approach that values both professional ambition and personal fulfilment.
Collaboration and team dynamics: Obsession sometimes leads to tunnel vision, where the entrepreneur may overlook the contributions and insights of their team members. Successful entrepreneurs recognise the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives, allowing their passion to enhance, rather than overshadow, the collective effort.
Case studies: Obsession in action
To better illustrate the power of obsession in entrepreneurship, consider the stories of notable figures, who exemplified this quality.
Southern Africa has seen a remarkable rise in women entrepreneurs, who have succeeded through their intense dedication and obsession with their goals.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of notable examples:
Gina Din-Kariuki (Kenya)
Din-Kariuki is a renowned entrepreneur and founder of Gina Din Group, a leading public relations and communications firm in Kenya. Her obsession with storytelling and branding has helped her build a strong reputation in the industry. Din-Kariuki is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to excellence, which has driven her success in a male-dominated sector.
Thabile Ngwato (South Africa)
Ngwato is the founder of Thabile Ngwato Consulting, a company that focuses on providing strategic solutions in the fields of public relations, marketing, and business development.
Ngwato’s obsession with empowering young women through mentorship and education has made her a notable figure in entrepreneurship. Her commitment to her clients and her passion for social change has driven her success.
Nneile Nkholise (South Africa)
Nkholise is the founder of 3DIMO, a company specialising in 3D printing technology. Nkholise’s obsession with innovation and technology has led her to create solutions that address medical and manufacturing needs in South Africa.
Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence in her field has earned her recognition and accolades as a rising star in the tech industry.
Granny Dimakatso Seape (SA)
With a property portfolio valued in millions of dollars, Seape, a former exile and known for starting the ANC economics desk in exile with Thabo Mbeki and the late Tito Mboweni, Granny's obsession with brick and mortar started off after a stint as merchant banker with Standard Merchant Bank in SA, after which she then set up a construction company that was involved in low cost housing across the country. Over the years, she has built a huge and successful property portfolio structured under different company vehicles.
Dawn Thandeka King (South Africa)
King is not only an accomplished actress but also a successful entrepreneur in the beauty industry. Her obsession with creating high-quality, natural beauty products led to the launch of her own brand, which emphasises self-care and empowerment. King’s unwavering commitment to her brand and her community has helped her carve a niche in the competitive beauty market.
Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe (SA)
Moloi-Motsepe is a prominent businesswoman and philanthropist known for her work in the fashion and healthcare sectors. She co-founded the African Fashion International and is passionate about promoting African designers.
Her obsession with elevating African fashion on the global stage, combined with her commitment to social responsibility, has positioned her as a key figure in the industry.
Elizabeth Kachiza (Zambia)
Kachiza is the founder of a successful catering business in Zambia. Her obsession with culinary excellence and customer satisfaction has led her to grow her business from a small startup to a well-respected catering service for events and corporate functions. Kachiza’s dedication to her craft and her clients has been pivotal in her success.
Nyasha Gwatidzo
Gwatidzo (United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean) is widely known for her work in helping excluded and disadvantaged children. More than three decades ago, Banyan Family Trust and Agency in the United Kingdom and later on Vana Trust in Zimbabwe, organisations that have assisted over 4 000 children in both countries.
Her obsession in not wanting to see any child suffering has grown her businesses into multi-pound sterling businesses with a global footprint.
Divine Ndhlukula (Zimbabwe)
Ndhlukula is the founder and CEO of Securico, one of Zimbabwe's leading security companies. Her journey began with a strong vision to provide effective security solutions that she pursued with relentless dedication and zeal. Her obsession with quality service and customer satisfaction has helped her company grow significantly, making Securico a trusted name in the industry.
Her success has earned her numerous award and recognition, positioning her as a role model for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
Lilian Choruwa (Zimbabwe)
Starting from humble beginnings, Choruwa, operating, as a conveyancer with a reputable law firm, has demonstrated that when you are obsessive about your goals and aspirations, you can move mountains. With a significant property portfolio that is operating successfully in the hospitality industry, Choruwa continues to grow in leaps and bounds in the property sector.
These women exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship in Southern Africa.
Through their obsessive passion, dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence, they have made significant contributions to various sectors, including security, food services, health, fashion and property.
Their stories inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and highlight the potential for women to lead and innovate in the business world.
The risks of obsession
While obsession can lead to great success, it is not without its risks. The darker side of obsession includes burnout, strained relationships, and a lack of perspective. Entrepreneurs must be aware of these potential pitfalls and develop strategies to mitigate them.
Burnout: The intense focus that comes with obsession can lead to exhaustion. Entrepreneurs should prioritise self-care and establish boundaries to prevent burnout. Regular breaks, physical activity, and time spent with loved ones can help maintain a healthy balance.
Isolation: Obsession can lead to social isolation, as the entrepreneur becomes consumed by their work. It is essential to engage with others, seek support, and foster relationships that can provide encouragement and fresh perspectives.
Loss of perspective: An intense focus can sometimes lead to a narrow viewpoint. Entrepreneurs should actively seek feedback from mentors, peers, and customers to ensure that their obsession does not blind them to important insights or shifts in the market.
Conclusion
In the quest for entrepreneurial success, obsession is often an underrated quality that can propel individuals to achieve remarkable feats.
While it should not overshadow other values such as ethics, collaboration, and well-being, when harnessed effectively, obsession becomes a powerful driving force that fuels innovation, resilience, and lasting impact.
As the business world continues to evolve, recognising the value of obsession may be the key to unlocking new levels of achievement.
Entrepreneurs, who embrace their passions and channel them into focused action, can create not only successful businesses but also transformative legacies that resonate far beyond their immediate goals. In this light, obsession emerges as not just a trait, but as a vital ethic that, when balanced with other values, can lead to extraordinary success in entrepreneurship.
- Ndoro-Mkombachoto is a former academic and banker. She has consulted widely in strategy, entrepreneurship and private sector development for organisations that include Seed Co Africa, Hwange Colliery, RBZ/CGC, Standard Bank of South Africa, Home Loans, IFC/World Bank, UNDP, USAid, Danida, Cida, Kellogg Foundation, among others, as a writer, property investor, developer and manager. — @HeartfeltwithGloria/ +263 772 236 341.
