In a recent LinkedIn post, Dan Sherrard-Smith explores the counterintuitive but essential concept that true entrepreneurial success often requires a willingness to let go of certain aspects of oneself and one’s current situation. Sherrard-Smith frames this not as a failure, but as a necessary precursor to significant growth and impact.
The post opens with a striking assertion, drawing inspiration from Carol Santoro: “Nothing can be gained without losing. Even heaven demands death.” Sherrard-Smith translates this philosophical idea into the practical realities of founding a business.
“In founder terms, it means letting go. Every successful founder goes through a process of letting go of: Ego, Comfort, Security, Certainty, Entitlement. Ultimately, letting go of old versions of you, to make room for growth.”
The ‘Loss’ That Fuels Entrepreneurial Wins
Sherrard-Smith argues that this process of ‘letting go’ is not about admitting defeat, but about shedding unnecessary burdens. He identifies several key areas that founders often need to release:
- Ego
- Comfort
- Security
- Certainty
- Entitlement
According to Sherrard-Smith, clinging to these elements can lead to stagnation. He uses the metaphor of climbing a mountain with an oversized, unnecessary backpack to illustrate how old habits or identities, while perhaps once helpful, can become hindrances to future progress.
Identifying and Releasing Stagnation Triggers
For founders experiencing a sense of being ‘stuck,’ Sherrard-Smith suggests a critical self-assessment is in order. He highlights specific behaviors and mindsets that may be impeding forward momentum:
- Worrying excessively about the opinions of others.
- Holding onto outdated personal or professional identities.
- Operating with a mindset of ‘playing small.’
As Dan Sherrard-Smith notes, these patterns might have facilitated early-stage progress but are ultimately detrimental to scaling and evolving. He emphasizes that external validation is not a prerequisite for change, stating:
“You don’t need permission. You don’t need perfect timing. You don’t need everyone’s approval.”
Beyond Profit: The Impact-Driven Founder
The article then pivots to address founders who are motivated by more than just financial returns. Sherrard-Smith posits that for those who genuinely care about making a difference, releasing these internal barriers is even more crucial.
“if you’ve been feeling stuck, this might be the wake up call you’ve been waiting for: Stop: ❌ Worrying what others will think ❌ Holding onto old identities ❌ Playing small.”
He asserts that the business world, and indeed the world at large, requires the unique contributions of these purpose-driven individuals. The true ‘loss,’ in Sherrard-Smith’s view, is not the act of letting go, but the failure to realize one’s full potential impact.
The Call to Action for Founders
Concluding his post, Sherrard-Smith issues a call to action, urging founders not to be held back by past versions of themselves. He reiterates that the potential impact they can achieve is significant and, for those who are driven by purpose, the time to shed these limitations is now. The real tragedy, he implies, is not embracing the growth that comes from letting go, thereby missing the opportunity to make the difference they are capable of.
Dan Sherrard-Smith’s insights offer a compelling perspective on the psychological and emotional journey of entrepreneurship, highlighting that strategic release is as vital as strategic acquisition for sustained success and meaningful contribution.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Dan Sherrard-Smith on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 8, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →