Several years ago, I interviewed Justin Coghlan, co-founder of Movember and the Movember Foundation, in an interview originally published in Thrive Global. Here is an excerpt from our interview:
Adam: How did you get here? What failures, setbacks, or challenges have been most instrumental to your growth?
Justin: What I said no to has defined me. I’ve had losses and large setbacks in my life – both in business and personal. From running big commercial businesses to running the world’s largest men’s health organization to the loss of amazing humans who helped make me who I am today. All have faced setbacks. But it’s these challenges that have pushed me. Moments that were really uncomfortable, that seemed to have no way through, when your back’s against the wall, that’s when you learn.
Adam: In your experience, what are the defining qualities of an effective leader? How can leaders and aspiring leaders take their leadership skills to the next level?
Justin: Listen to your people. Nothing is more important than human capital. Understanding and listening. Never be the smartest person in the room, always try to surround yourself with people smarter than you. Every problem, no matter how big. There is always a solution. You don’t always have to be the one talking.
Adam: What are your three best tips applicable to entrepreneurs, executives, and civic leaders?
Justin: 1. Be honest and humble
2. Make sure you’re always having fun – once that ends, it’s time to get out
3. Surround yourself with the smartest and most creative people – always set a three-year journey for them to basically make them better humans so they can move on to their next challenge. That is your job as a leader. Always be a gentleman.
Adam: What is the single best piece of advice you have ever received?
Justin: Super fine line between failure and success. You should never be afraid of failure but learn and grow from it. Try again.
Adam: What can anyone do to pay it forward?
Justin: Making sure every day that we leave the planet in a better shape than when we came into it. Be better humans. Good manners and a smile will get you everywhere. Be kind, even in the smallest ways, you just don’t know what other people are dealing with.
Adam: Is there anything else you would like to share?
Justin: If I could give any advice, social connectivity is the key to life. Spend time with people who make you feel good. For a happy, healthier, and longer existence in life, friends are invaluable and knowledge is truly power. So, if everyone can check their historical numbers – from cancer to health, know your family medical history, go to the doctor, get tested for anything you are at risk for, check in with your friends to make sure they are ok. That and making sure we are all actively helping to leave our planet in a better place, for the generations to come.
