On Day 1 of the 2023 Conscious Entrepreneur Summit , we had the privilege of hosting Godard Abel, CEO of G2, and Keith Gruen, a Conscious Leadership coach. The talk was aptly titled “Moving Beyond the Rage,” and it was a transformative experience for everyone in attendance.
The Journey of Godard Abel
Godard Abel has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years, building companies that have eventually been acquired by giants like Oracle and Salesforce. His current venture, G2, aims to make it easier to buy and sell software. Godard is also an angel investor and chairman of a couple of startups, making him a well-rounded figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Role of Conscious Leadership
Godard’s introduction to conscious leadership came through the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). Initially skeptical about the concept, he eventually found value in it, especially during the challenging times he faced in his first company, Big Machines. The company was on the brink of bankruptcy, and Godard was grappling with personal challenges, including the premature birth of his twins.
The Power of Acceptance
One of the most poignant moments in the talk was when Godard shared how he reached a point where he felt that life couldn’t get any worse. It was at that moment of acceptance that he felt a sense of relief and a newfound perspective that things could only get better. This shift in mindset was a turning point in his life and career.
The Complexity of Anger
Godard openly discussed his relationship with anger, describing it as a core persona. He talked about how conscious leadership has helped him become more aware of his emotions, including anger. He emphasized that the key is not to suppress or avoid emotions but to feel them fully.
The Role of Story
Godard frequently used the term “my story” during the talk, highlighting the importance of recognizing that our thoughts and perceptions are not absolute truths but rather stories we tell ourselves. This awareness creates space for others to share their perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and open environment.
The Impact on Business
When asked about the impact of being a conscious entrepreneur on his recent $157 million fundraising for G2, Godard acknowledged that while some investors appreciate his approach, others are drawn to his Enneagram 8 personality, which is assertive and challenging. However, he believes that being a more conscious leader has made him a more effective leader overall.
A Moment of Release
The talk concluded with a group scream, led by Godard and Keith, allowing everyone to let their emotions flow and move beyond the rage. It was a fitting end to a conversation that delved deep into the complexities of human emotions and the journey of entrepreneurship.
Final Thoughts
The conversation between Godard Abel and Keith Gruen was not just a talk but an experience that left us all a little more conscious and a lot more inspired. As we navigate the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the lessons from this talk remind us that the journey is as important as the destination, and being aware of our “stories” can make all the difference.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with us. Until next time, stay conscious and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
