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Why Entrepreneurs Should Think Like Immigrants: A Blueprint for Success

Dan Sullivan, the founder of Strategic Coach, often emphasizes that entrepreneurs should adopt an “immigrant mindset.” This idea stems from the unique characteristics immigrants bring to the table, such as resilience, adaptability, and a drive to overcome obstacles. In one of Sullivan’s podcasts, he interviews José Barrios, a political refugee from El Salvador who now owns a thriving janitorial and maintenance company. Jose Barrios’ story is a testament to how thinking like an immigrant can fuel entrepreneurial success​.

The Immigrant Mindset in Entrepreneurship

What exactly does it mean to “think like an immigrant”? Immigrants often face significant challenges when they arrive in a new country—language barriers, cultural differences, and navigating unfamiliar systems. Yet, many immigrants go on to become highly successful entrepreneurs. In fact, according to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, immigrants are nearly twice as likely as native-born citizens to start a business.

This entrepreneurial spirit is driven by several key traits:

  1. Adaptability: Immigrants must adapt to new environments, often learning new languages, customs, and industries. This adaptability is crucial for entrepreneurs who face ever-changing market conditions.
  2. Resourcefulness: Immigrants frequently start with limited resources, forcing them to think creatively and find ways to make the most of what they have. This ingenuity can be the difference between success and failure in the competitive world of business.
  3. Resilience: Having already overcome significant obstacles, many immigrants develop the grit necessary to persevere through tough times—whether it’s in life or business.

As Jose Barrios shares in his interview with Dan Sullivan, he didn’t feel like he fit in initially—not because of language or cultural differences, but because of his entrepreneurial drive. This drive pushed him to create his own opportunities, build a business with his family, and navigate challenges with the determination that is often found in the immigrant experience​.

The Numbers Speak: Immigrant Entrepreneurs in the U.S. and North America

The impact of immigrant entrepreneurs is staggering. In the U.S., immigrants make up approximately 14% of the population but own about 25% of all businesses​. These businesses are not only more likely to grow quickly, but they also contribute significantly to job creation. For example, many immigrant-founded businesses are in high-growth industries such as technology, manufacturing, and retail, creating jobs and driving innovation.

A report from the Partnership for a New American Economy found that over 40% of Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children. These companies generate billions of dollars in revenue annually, further illustrating the financial success that immigrant-led businesses can achieve over time.

Why This Mindset is Important for All Entrepreneurs

Adopting an immigrant mindset doesn’t mean that entrepreneurs need to face the same struggles that immigrants do, but it does suggest a shift in perspective. Entrepreneurs who embrace adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience are more likely to navigate uncertainty and find creative solutions to complex problems.

Dan Sullivan frequently notes that entrepreneurs must be comfortable with discomfort. Like immigrants starting a new life in an unfamiliar country, entrepreneurs must be willing to take risks, embrace change, and continually seek out new opportunities. This mindset is what allows businesses to grow, thrive, and withstand economic challenges.

Our Belief in Immigrant Entrepreneurs

At Cleansolution, we believe that immigrants make some of the best entrepreneurs. Their ability to adapt, learn quickly, and persist through adversity aligns with our core values of innovation and resilience. Our founder’s journey is a testament to the power of this mindset, and we’re proud to be part of a community that celebrates the contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs.

By embracing the immigrant mindset, any entrepreneur—whether they were born in a different country or not—can unlock their potential for success. The lessons learned from immigrants are not just about survival but about thriving, pushing boundaries, and turning challenges into opportunities.

Conclusion

Thinking like an immigrant offers a blueprint for entrepreneurial success. The statistics back it up—immigrant-owned businesses in the U.S. and North America are not only more likely to succeed but also to drive job creation and economic growth. Whether you’re an immigrant or not, adopting this mindset can help you overcome obstacles, find innovative solutions, and build a thriving business.

So, take a page from the playbook of immigrant entrepreneurs—embrace change, stay resilient, and keep pushing forward. Success is not only possible but inevitable for those willing to think differently and persevere.


For more insights on entrepreneurship and immigrant success stories, check out Dan Sullivan’s Podcasts, where he delves deeper into these concepts with industry leaders and entrepreneurs like José Barrios.