Feeling overwhelmed by running your company?
You’re not alone. Many founding CEOs thrive on innovation and motivation but struggle with operations. It’s not their strength, and often, it’s not their passion.
You’re also not alone in another sense. Some people love building structure and handling operations—the very things you might dislike.
If this sounds familiar, here are a few strategies to consider:
The best long-term solution is finding a partner who can execute your vision as well as you create it. Think of legendary business duos: Tim Cook and Steve Jobs, Paul Allen and Bill Gates. A strong partnership may bring friction, but that friction often drives the company forward.
If you prefer full control, build a team that fills your gaps. This could include experienced executives, a chief of staff, or key operators who bring structure and execution to your vision. Empower them to handle the details so you can focus on your strengths.
For immediate support, a CEO operations advisor can be a game-changer. They offer accountability and expertise in areas outside your focus. While not a long-term fix, they provide an objective perspective that’s free from internal politics.
Each of these options helps align your visionary strengths with the realities of running a company. Recognizing your limits isn’t a weakness—it’s a sign of strong leadership.
That said, in some ways, you will always be alone at the top. Whether or not you have a founding partner, being a CEO is inherently isolating. The weight of decisions and accountability falls on you.
That’s why self-care and self-compassion matter. The emotional side of leadership is real, often overlooked, and crucial for long-term success. Perhaps that’s a discussion for another time.