Words: Andrew Ash

Every business has its ups and downs. When things aren’t going well, it’s easy to assume that things are only going to get worse or become overwhelmed by a sense of failure. But even the most successful businesspeople have had failures along the way. The story I always find inspiring is that of Sir James Dyson. Instead of giving up in the face of repeated and disastrous failures, he demonstrated the resilience and determination that led to monumental success.

Embrace failure as a stepping stone

Today, we know Dyson as the man who revolutionised the vacuum. But his path to success was paved with failures – 5126 of them, to be exact. Instead of viewing these failures as setbacks, Dyson saw them as learning opportunities. Each failed prototype of his revolutionary vacuum cleaner brought him closer to the final, successful design. 

This mindset is crucial when navigating tough times. Embrace failures, learn from them and use them to fuel your progress.

Persistence can pay off

Dyson’s journey was not only about enduring failures but also about relentless persistence. For five years, he worked tirelessly in his workshop, often isolated and without financial backing. His story teaches us that persistence, even in the face of overwhelming odds, is key to overcoming challenges. Keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough.

Perhaps Dyson summarised this idea best when he said: 

“There is no such thing as a quantum leap. There is only dogged persistence – and in the end, you make it look like a quantum leap.”

Seek support and collaboration

It’s important to know that persistence has a price. Dyson explains this in his book Against the Odds. 

“While it is easy, of course, for me to celebrate my doggedness now and say that it is all you need to succeed, the truth is that it demoralised me terribly,” he wrote. 

“I would crawl into the house every night covered in dust after a long day, exhausted and depressed because that day’s cyclone had not worked. There were times when I thought it would never work, that I would keep on making cyclone after cyclone, never going forwards, never going backwards, until I died.” 

This is why you should seek support in tough times.

While Dyson often worked alone, he also recognised the importance of support and collaboration. His wife, Deirdre, was a constant source of encouragement. Try to surround yourself with supportive individuals who believe in your vision and can offer encouragement and advice during tough times. It may be your spouse, accountant, business partner or a staff member. The main point is that strong supportive relationships will help you move through tough times.

Innovate and adapt

One of Dyson’s early inventions, the Ballbarrow, faced significant challenges, including a betrayal by his business partner. Instead of giving up, Dyson adapted and moved on to his next big idea—the bagless vacuum cleaner. This ability to innovate and adapt is essential in tough times. When faced with obstacles, we should look for new solutions and be willing to pivot.

Believe in your vision

Throughout his journey, Dyson never lost sight of his vision. Despite numerous setbacks and financial struggles, he believed in the potential of his inventions. This unwavering belief in your vision can provide the motivation needed to persevere through difficult periods. Stay focused on your goals and trust in your ability to achieve them.

Build on solid foundations

Dyson lost control of his first business to outside investors. This taught him to always maintain control of his inventions. This was a mistake he did not repeat.

He also learned early what happens if you don’t have sufficient cash to grow. Ensuring you have the bank on your side and your financials in order to grow is fundamental. In tough times, a solid foundation which protects you and provides you with sufficient cash flow to survive is key to long-term success. Good financial management is also essential.

Tough times are not the end

Dyson’s journey from failure to success is a powerful reminder that tough times are not the end, but rather a part of the journey. By embracing failure, persisting through challenges, learning, innovating, believing in your vision, seeking support and building on solid financial foundations, you can navigate through difficult periods and emerge stronger. For me, Dyson’s story is a beacon of hope and a guide for anyone facing tough times.

About the author:

Andrew Ash is a Family Business Advisor and tax agent. He helps business owners develop strategies to improve their businesses, minimise tax and navigate succession.

Photo by Road Trip with Raj on Unsplash.