MACH37 works hard to support founder wellbeing. This week our cohort has been reflecting a lot about social wellbeing. In light of current events, we’d like to encourage everyone in our network to do so as well.
Social wellbeing is as much about taking care of others' wellbeing as it is about caring for your own. As humans our wellbeing often rises and falls together. When someone you care for is hurting, you hurt too. What do we need when we're hurting, struggling or beaten down? Support. Compassion. Outreach.
Right now the events across the United States are showing the deep hurt that has been part of our communities and social reality for generations. The tragic, inexcusable murder of George Floyd is part of a long, deplorable timeline of deep, systemic racism and interpersonal violence. Throughout his life, as well as in the moments of his death, Floyd seemed to embody the struggle to live in a society with pervasive inequities, disrespect and violence. His pleas haunt us all. 'I can't breathe.' I've wondered repeatedly, how often and in how many other ways did Floyd feel that same way while living in our society? How many others feel the same? How do they live their lives everyday within these ever present constraints and traumas? The numbers far exceed those we see speaking and protesting in the streets.
We believe deeply in building a world characterized by peace, equality, humanity and creativity. Entrepreneurs are a critical part of how societies build and rebuild. You're creating not just a company but a piece of the world's culture and a path to its future. Your success paves the way for more people to build in positive directions. And in order to build a company, we first build the social relationships that will give us the strength, support and insight to succeed in spite of tremendous pressures to the contrary. Entrepreneurs are leaders - in their thinking, in their industries and in their willingness to take action ahead of the curve. Good leaders not only take care of others, but live as examples, demonstrating to their communities and networks how to care for those around them while still braving the unknowns of the future.
A culture of hope, opportunity and equality is built upon the trust, respect and humanity we place into our relationships each day. We are proud to have you in the MACH37 family and we are here to support you, now and in the future. In this unprecedented time of turmoil we encourage you to reach out to others and offer connection and support in your own authentic way - as entrepreneurs, as founders, as leaders and, most importantly, as humans.
Be well.