If you’ve never read the famous quote from former US president Theodore Roosevelt, “The Man in the Arena,” this is how it goes:

It is not the critic who counts;
not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles,
or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.
The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena,
whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood;
who strives valiantly;
who errs,
who comes short again and again,
because there is no effort without error and shortcoming;
but who does actually strive to do the deeds;
who knows great enthusiasms,
the great devotions;
who spends himself in a worthy cause;
who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement,
and who at the worst,
if he fails,
at least fails while daring greatly,
so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

– Theodore Roosevelt

Ok YES, Brené Brown Brought This to Our Attention, But She Has a Point

Stemming from Brené Brown’s work on “Daring Greatly,” Brown quotes the famous former president as a means to highlight vulnerability and what it means to be brave. Whether you remember this great presidential speech by Roosevelt, or you were influenced by Brown’s TED talk on the matter, the point both are trying to make is one about grabbing life by the horns. And it ain’t going to be easy.

The Two Voices

1. The one that tells us we can’t do something. The one that tells us people will criticize you if you try. The one that says you’re an imposter. “Who do you think you are?”
   
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2. The one that sounds like Brené Brown quoting Theodore Roosevelt.

5 Lessons from The Man in the Arena

1. Emphasis on Action and Courage

Roosevelt’s speech stresses the importance of taking action, of being actively engaged in life rather than being a critic on the sidelines. This resonates with us because it encourages us to face challenges head-on, to not fear failure, and to strive for greatness despite the risks.

The willingness to act with courage is key for business owners. Any entrepreneur knows how much risk is involved when starting and running any business. This risk-taking mentality is what puts business owners in the arena.

2. Resilience in the Face of Criticism

In this passage Roosevelt talks about the inevitability of criticism and the importance of not letting it deter one’s efforts. This is particularly relevant in today’s world where criticism can come from all directions, especially for entrepreneurs who are often pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.

Here’s the real kicker: innovation comes from doing things differently, so of course people are always going to criticize ideas that challenge the norm.

Entrepreneurs are often innovators and leaders, creating new products, services, or industries. Roosevelt’s call to “dare greatly” and to be the one in the arena resonates with the entrepreneurial spirit of pushing boundaries and leading change.

3. Learning from Failure

Roosevelt suggests that failure, even repeated failure, is not something to be ashamed of but rather an inevitable part of striving for success. This mindset is essential for entrepreneurs who need to embrace failure as a learning opportunity rather than a final defeat.

Entrepreneurial journeys are often filled with obstacles, setbacks, and failures. Roosevelt’s speech emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of these challenges, which is crucial for entrepreneurs to keep going despite the odds.

4. Celebration of Effort over Outcome

The speech emphasizes the value of effort, of trying and failing, over the fear of failure itself. This is crucial in entrepreneurship where failure is not only common but is necessary for learning and growth.

Here is a couple of more recent, and maybe more relatable quotes from the sporting world that highlight the importance of effort and overcome failure and the fear of a failed outcome:

5. The Importance of Authenticity and Integrity

In entrepreneurship, authenticity and integrity are essential. Successful entrepreneurs often build their ventures based on their genuine passions, values, and beliefs. They stand out by being true to themselves and their vision, rather than trying to emulate others or chase trends.

Moreover, authenticity builds trust. Customers, investors, and partners are more likely to connect with and support entrepreneurs who are authentic and transparent about their motivations, values, and actions.

In Conclusion

In summary, Roosevelt’s speech reminds us that being the “man in the arena” requires action, courage, resilience, overcoming failure, and authenticity. These takeaways are particularly relevant for entrepreneurs who seek success not just in terms of financial gain but also in making a meaningful impact in their lives, their families lives, and their community.