Today, The Platinum Mask channel would like to introduce Derek Derbigny for a conversation.
What was the biggest obstacle in your journey and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle in my journey was, and continues to be, my very own self. It is very difficult to get out of your own head, remain objective, and take your ego out of every situation. It is all too easy as an entrepreneur, or any profession of passion for that matter, to allow your profession or your goals to become your identity, this cannot happen because it stifles growth and your ability to make rational decisions. It takes diligence, introspection, and the study of psychology and human ethics in order to truly begin to separate you and your self-worth from your goals.
What separates you from similar artist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area?
Each of my companies is centered around the growth of everyone involved. As a testament to that, we offer flexible scheduling and ample paid days off, plus, no one gets paid less than $20 an hour. We truly value everyone who works with and for each of our companies.
Is there anything you wished you would have known earlier in your journey?
I wish I would have known how to better decipher what my business needs and when my business needs it. Many times, instead of buying a new machine or toy to solve a problem, you could have instead created better systems and solutions that are far cheaper and efficient instead. Don’t always look for the magic bullet or buy the flashy new machine at the first whim. Your business may not actually need it after all, it could jut need some fresh ideas.
Were there any major challenges due to the covid-19 pandemic? How did you overcome them?
Because all of my businesses are centered around convenience, the COVID-19 pandemic actually helped bolster them as it allowed us to serve more people as they sought refuge within their homes. However, there have been big pandemic challenges, such as; the rising cost of goods, labor shortages, and the current attitude towards work in general. While we have been able to make it work thus far, I do not foresee these challenge’s going anyway anytime in the near future. We will continue to do our best to minimize our costs so that we do not have to pass them on to the consumer, continue to create positions of value and excitement, and continue to innovate in an effort to always remain five steps ahead.
What was your upbringing like and did you discover your passion early on?
I’m not big on passion. Passion is vague, unbridled, and relies heavily on hopes and enthusiasm. Purpose on the other hand, takes the ego out of it all and focuses more on what you can contribute to something larger. So yes, I did find my purpose a long time ago, and that is to help create opportunities for others through business and innovation.
Do you have a mentor and can you remember any key advice they have given you?
Mentors are essential to your success. I have multiple wonderful mentors, and would even go as far as to say everyone you meet can be a mentor as long as you ask the right questions and are willing to actually listen to their responses, digest them, then see if and how they can be used to better the life of yourself and those around you. We are all a mentor to someone. One of the best pieces of advice I have been given is to take yourself and your ego out of every decision regarding your business.
Were your friends and family supportive of your mission?
I’ll put it this way. YOU have to be your own biggest fan. If you have to rely on validation from others, or a greenlight from others, do not start your own business or move into a position of leadership.
Any links you want to share for the viewers?
