We’re thrilled to spotlight the dynamic Mike Wittenstein. Dive into our candid chat with him below.
Mike, thrilled to chat today. We’ve always fascinated by individuals who seem so anchored in their purpose. Why should this resonate with readers?
My journey to discover my purpose has been filled with surprises. Instead of introspection, it was the people around me – my family, friends, colleagues, and even passing acquaintances – who painted a clear picture. They saw me as a bridge builder, effortlessly connecting dots in relationships, business, and customer experience. This insight didn’t just reshape my self-image; it propelled me to roles where I could truly make a difference.
Stephan Haeckel, my mentor during my IBM days and author of “Adaptive Enterprise,” distilled the concept of professional purpose beautifully. He said it’s not about you; it’s about creating value for others. Period. With this selfless mindset, everything clicked. I realized I had an eye for spotting patterns, going beyond just identifying trends to swiftly sharing actionable insights. It was an ‘aha’ moment that transformed both my professional and personal life.
So why does this matter to you?
Because understanding your purpose—both personal and professional—is like finding your North Star. It not only guides you through the labyrinth of career choices and social dynamics but also becomes your secret weapon for generating impact and fostering meaningful alliances.
Thanks for that insight, Mike. Before we delve deeper, could you shed some light on your journey?
Channeling this sense of purpose into my career, I’ve dedicated myself to birthing truly novel ideas. I’m talking about those genuine first-of-a-kind innovations. While there’s a place for another restaurant or yet another tech add-on, I’m after the groundbreaking stuff.
What’s in my toolkit, you ask? Stories, visual representations, video, tech (yes, AI too), design—you name it. These are more than just mediums; they’re vehicles to transform those rough sketches of innovation into vivid, compelling realities. The objective is to not only make these ideas tangible but to inspire belief and garner support from stakeholders, teams, or investors. The thrill of turning these unique ideas into something concrete is unmatched, not to mention desperately needed in a world where genuine innovation is the primary driver of new value. It’s fun to work on the future with those brave enough to venture into the unexplored, to think beyond conventional wisdom.
Reflecting on your path, what three qualities or skills have been game-changers for you? Any nuggets of wisdom for those just starting out?
My foundation rests on three pillars: pattern recognition, storytelling, and forging relationships. The first helps me spot unique opportunities, the second lets me turn complex concepts into compelling tales, and the last? It’s the magic that ties everything together, enriching both my personal and professional life.
Starting out in your career can feel like wandering in a maze, right? It’s challenging, especially when you haven’t accumulated enough experience to make informed choices. However, there are some strategies you can employ:
Be selective with your circle. The people you associate with will inevitably shape your thoughts, beliefs, and actions. It’s not just networking; it’s about aligning yourself with individuals who positively influence your trajectory.
Create a learning agenda whenever you embark on a project or take on a new role. Articulating your learning goals will not only steer you in the right direction but will help you master the complexities that come with new challenges.
Cultivate relationships with people who possess complementary skills. If you’re a visionary, learn the ropes of execution from analytical thinkers. If you’re deeply rooted in data, seek out those who can paint a narrative around it. The synergy that stems from diverse skill sets is both enriching and enjoyable.
Part of our mission is to bridge connections between like-minded folks with similar goals. What makes the ideal collaborator or partner?
At a juncture with a pioneering opportunity that’s sparking your curiosity? Let’s channel that energy into results. With my mix of strategy, customer insight, tech expertise, and narrative skills, we can carve out a plan that’s as thrilling to execute as it is effective.
Teaming up with me? It’s more than just joining the dots. It’s about weaving people, ideas, and a world of possibilities. It’s serious work, but who says it can’t be fun? If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, laugh a little, and make a significant impact, I’d love to hear from you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.storyminers.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikewittenstein
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikewittenstein
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/7_I-b6ipSWo
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storyminers/
Image Credits
Djaren
Cindy Brown
