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I can’t tell you how flattering it is to be approached by representatives from major companies seeking my wisdom and advice. It shows they are listening, and like what I have to say. But often I find the road ends when they are just on a fact finding mission. That mission is to pick my brain to gather as much free intel and knowledge they need to make their jobs easier. Not gonna happen, sorry. My brain costs money to maintain. There’s training, classes to attend, reading (I have to buy books), gaining certifications, costs of memberships so I can network, attending conferences and mastering my skills that all cost me money. I have to protect my investment. How fair is it to me to give away all the knowledge I have acquired that I use to make my living, pay my bills and eat?

We are in an age of abundance. As a direct result, people feel entitled, yet aren’t willing to do the work necessary to be successful. They aren’t willing to be driven, relentless and scrappy. Yet this is exactly what the American dream is all about. Plain and simple — if you’re not willing to dig deeper than others to achieve success, don’t be an entrepreneur.

The key to innovation is seeing through the noise, and understanding what your consumer needs. The latter is really of the most importance. If you truly understand what the consumer wants, you can push the envelope on innovation, and ensure you’re going to sell your product.