Creating Balance: Insights from Akash Shah of Care/of
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Chapter 1: The Journey of an Entrepreneur
Akash Shah, co-founder and Chief Product & Technology Officer at Care/of, has significantly impacted wellness through personalized routines. His entrepreneurial journey began at age 14, influenced by his father, a physician who established his own practice. Akash's ventures include a t-shirt printing business and a grocery delivery service for college students, culminating in Care/of, his fifth startup.
In his spare time, Akash enjoys family activities, watching basketball, and exercising.
As I reflect on my path, I realize that entrepreneurship has always allowed me to create and contribute positively to people's lives.
Section 1.1: Early Inspiration
Akash's entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by early experiences, leading him to establish multiple businesses throughout his teenage and early adult years.
Subsection 1.1.1: Lessons from the Launch
When launching Care/of, Akash and his partner, Craig Elbert, faced contrasting views on brand presentation. While Craig emphasized a strong first impression, Akash leaned towards a lean startup approach. They eventually tested a "fake" beta brand for learning purposes. In retrospect, Akash acknowledges the value of brand credibility in resonating with customers, realizing that a lean approach may not suit every business.
Section 1.2: Defining Leadership
For Akash, effective leadership entails establishing a clear vision and empowering team members. He believes that serving and unblocking others is essential to fostering motivation within the team.
Chapter 2: Balancing Work and Family Life
As Akash navigated his entrepreneurial journey, the arrival of his first daughter prompted him to reassess his priorities and balance between work and family.
While initially consumed by his career, he learned the importance of family time, particularly during significant moments like bath and bedtime rituals with his daughters.
Section 2.1: A Day in the Life
Akash's daily routine is fluid, beginning around 7 a.m. with his daughters. He strives to incorporate exercise and meditation but prioritizes quality family time in the evenings.
Section 2.2: Shifts in Perspective
Success has clarified Akash's priorities, allowing him to focus on what truly matters: spending meaningful time with his family. He emphasizes the importance of delegating tasks and optimizing his time at work.
Chapter 3: Key Takeaways for Leaders
Akash shares his ongoing journey toward achieving work-life balance, offering valuable insights:
- Begin each day with a clear intention for what needs to be accomplished.
- Identify one or two daily rituals that you hold sacred and maintain their integrity.
- Allow flexibility in your schedule and don't take life too seriously.
Section 3.1: A Life Lesson
One of Akash's favorite quotes encapsulates his philosophy: "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." This reminder helps him focus on enjoying the entrepreneurial journey rather than fixating solely on outcomes.
Section 3.2: Inspiring a Movement
If Akash could ignite a movement, it would be to enhance support for scientific advancement. He champions the importance of modern medicine and believes that collective efforts can lead to significant breakthroughs for humanity.
Thank you, Akash, for sharing your insights on balancing entrepreneurship and family life!