HDNet, Landmark Theaters, MicroSolutions, Dallas Mavericks and Broadcast.com are only some companies associated with Mark Cuban. This billionaire investor and entrepreneur made lots of good choices but also had pitfalls. He shares these stories in his new book, “How to Win at the Sport of Business”. Considering his sports investments, the title is an obvious choice. Mark Cuban, father of three, knows how to get motivated and how to keep pursuing the dream. You can learn a lot about his rags to riches story in his new book and our latest interview.
There are many moms out there that dream of creating their own business but don’t know where to start. What advice do you have for them?
Find something you love to do, can do on your own and doesn’t require any more capital than you can afford to lose personally. The most valuable asset you have is your time, talents and ability to communicate. Focus on those strengths and what you can do rather than what you can’t do.
There are many young moms who are just beginning their lives and can relate to you when you said you were sharing a small apartment with 6 people and sleeping on the floor. How can someone keep their eye on the prize when they’re living on Ramen noodles?
Who cares how you are living today? I loved every minute of living in that dump. The low rent and utilities and eating Mac n’ Cheese all the time allowed me to afford the startup of my business. Instead of paying myself much, I could put it in to my business.
One part in your book talks about how your fiance lost your $7500 ring. What’s your advice for those moms out there who are distracted by a relationship? How do you balance a real life with your dreams?
I never was able to balance. Each person has to make their own decisions. But remember, your competitors aren’t sitting by idly waiting for you to have a nice dinner with your significant other. They are trying to kick your ass. So choose wisely.
You encourage entrepreneurs not to hire a public relations firm, Mark. How did you get the word out about your eBook?
I tweeted, posted on Facebook, [used] Google Plus and responded to emails. Nothing more.
Where can we get a copy of your eBook, How to Win at the Sport of Business
?
Anywhere eBooks are sold: Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com, and sites that support independent bookstores too.
