We can’t begin to compare the experiences of soldiers who fought in the First and Second World Wars to those of business professionals today. The soldiers who kept our countries safe endured unimaginable hardships, and rightly, they were recognized for their bravery, achievements, and the battle scars they carried. Their progression through the ranks was earned over years of service, dedication, and sacrifice.

Interestingly, the business world once followed a similar structure. People would rise through the ranks over time, based on their skill set, experience, and their ability to endure the challenges of the corporate battlefield. Executives and leaders were seasoned veterans who had faced and conquered countless obstacles, gaining the wisdom needed to guide others.

But today, things are different. In the modern business world, all you need is an idea, some startup capital, and a bit of luck, and suddenly, you’re a CEO or an executive director. The battlefield has been replaced by social media announcements, and the trenches where experience was once earned seem to be bypassed entirely.

This rapid elevation devalues the true essence of leadership. Titles like CEO, COO, CFO, executive director, or managing partner no longer carry the same weight they once did. In many cases, these titles are handed out long before an individual has had the chance to earn their stripes through actual business battles. The grit, the sweat, and the lessons learned from tough times are what build leaders. Skipping this process may lead to short-term success, but it lacks the foundation of true, earned experience.

While entrepreneurship is commendable, and ideas should be celebrated, leadership should still be earned through experience. The real soldiers of the business world are those who’ve survived market crashes, navigated financial downturns, and fought for the survival of their companies day in and day out. They’ve been on the front lines, making tough calls when everything was on the line. These are the veterans who understand the weight of their responsibilities and lead with a deep sense of accountability.

In this age of instant entrepreneurship, it’s time we remember the importance of experience. Leadership is not just about having a title, it’s about proving you can withstand the pressure, fight through the obstacles, and still stand strong after the battle. Those are the real soldiers of the business world.

Learning from the Past

So how can today’s entrepreneurs and leaders benefit from the lessons of the past? First, it’s important to recognize that there is no substitute for experience. Taking the time to learn from those who have walked the path before you can provide invaluable insights. Seek out mentors, and veterans of the business world who’ve endured the highs and lows. Their battle stories may not always be glamorous, but the lessons they carry are essential for real, sustainable success.

Next, take the long road when it comes to growth. In a world obsessed with quick wins, there’s incredible value in slowing down and truly mastering each step. Don’t rush to the top without first building a solid foundation. Understand your business from the ground up, get involved in every aspect, and face the hard times head-on. This kind of perseverance builds resilience, and that resilience is what will carry you through the tough times.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of learning from failure. True growth comes from the lessons learned during setbacks. Failure teaches humility, patience, and resourcefulness—qualities every great leader possesses. Instead of avoiding challenges, embrace them, because every challenge is an opportunity to become a stronger, more seasoned leader.

In the end, leadership isn’t a title you inherit. It’s a status you earn through persistence, hard work, and learning from those who’ve been in the trenches before you.

@brianjue @geoffmiller @wilfordaugustus @jonbarker @dougcolvard @Julie-AnneAfrin @ChristopherHinze @JakePucillo @lucadinolfi