The Why of Business

So, the time is almost here everyone. I'll be graduating early next

month with my Masters of Entertainment Business Degree. Throughout this course I've learned about the business of artist management, the business of intellectual property, and the business of finance just to name a few. Regardless of the context, the primary focus of my degree program has been on business.

I can recall that prior to beginning this program, I had to be convinced to do so by my wonderful girlfriend of almost two years. At that time, I had no desire to pursue a business degree, because I didn't want to spend my professional career wading through a deluge of endless paperwork. I didn't (and still don't) really like politics. My idea of a great career would be sitting behind a recording console turning knobs (or encoders / VCA's if you're nerdy) until the audio was just perfect. What I've realized throughout this course, is that without sound business skills, it may be possible to get that kind of job, but it won't be on your own terms. Proper business discipline empowers one to break the chains of financial slavery, and live the life they desire to (see my last post for more on this).

So there you have it. That's my reason for wanting to attain a level of business savvy. But what about everyone else. As anyone who's seen an interview with a successful CEO, or a business documentary knows, many of these people never need to work another day in their lives. Once an individual has reached a certain level of financial success and stability, work is no longer a requirement. At this point, it's a choice. So why do so many successful and intelligent business professionals choose to continue working despite having achieved financial independence and security? The answers to this question are as varied as the individuals to whom they relate.

There are some business heads who continue to operate in business because they have a mission. These individuals are truly a rarity in a culture which seems to celebrate greed, and a lust for power. These individuals press on because they are driven by a mission; usually a mission to improve society for the greater good. This is admirable. The fact that an individual is willing to give up their free time, and early retirement simply because they feel a responsibility to follow through with the good that they know they can do is commendable. This is, however, only one of the driving factors which could potentially motivate a wealthy business owner to persist in their industry.



It's no secret that some of the wealthiest individuals in history were also some of the most corrupt. The idea of modern labor unions originated as the result of one businessman's greed, and refusal to provide reasonable compensation and safe work conditions for those under his employ. What's really sad is the fact that he succeeded in his endeavors. So in this case, we have the greedy businessman who continues to compete simply due to a perpetually unfulfilled desire to continue acquiring more, no matter the cost.

The last example is the businessman who simply enjoys the competitive nature of it. Now, I personally feel this is tantamount to that couple that argues simply because they enjoy the argument. It may be fun for awhile, but eventually someone says something that goes a little too far, and then feelings are hurt and collateral damage is done. Regardless of my own personal opinion, there are several innovations and advancements that would not have taken place without the shrewd determination of a competitive businessman. This trend doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon. There is no shortage of resources for current and prospective businessmen hoping to crush their competition into dust. Whether this is a means to an end, or the end itself will be based on the particular businessman.

Now, there will be exceptions to every rule, but most businessmen will fall into some combination of the above categories. One important thing to realize when dealing with businessmen, or people in general, is that understanding their "why" is a great way to determine how to deal with their individual personality. No two people are the same, but instead of interacting with the intent to polarize an individual, it would be wise to instead seek common ground with everyone. Even if a person's characteristics are unpalatable, there will always be some common ground that can provide the first steps toward open communication and cooperation.