Profit margins are a great metric, but sometimes they lie.
Imagine an entrepreneur sketching a new business idea on a napkin in a café for a potential partner. At this stage, there’s no profit, no revenue, no team, no structure—nothing.
Now, compare that to a solid company, maybe even a market leader. Sophisticated processes, offices worldwide, thousands of employees—and profits so massive they barely fit in the annual report.
Metaphorically, the first case is like a seed planted in rich black soil. The second? A tree stump covered in mushrooms. Outwardly, the stump looks alive and thriving, but inside, it’s dead.
Of course, not every new project will survive. And sometimes, even a large organization can reinvent itself. But that’s not the point here.
Pay attention to the source of life.
A lush appearance shouldn’t blind you to a hollow core. And on the flip side, don’t rush to dismiss what seems insignificant. “Nothing” might just surprise you.
Sincerely yours,
-Alexander
About me:
As a business therapist, I help tech founders quickly solve dilemmas at the intersection of business and personality, and boost company value as a result.
How can I help you?
If you've long been trying to understand what is limiting you and/or your business and how to finally give important changes a push, then The Catalyst Session is designed specifically for you. Book it here.