90 in 90: Markevis Gideon, NERDiT Now.

Over the course of my journey, I’ve learned valuable lessons that have shaped me into the person I am today. These 10 ideas encapsulate the wisdom, experiences, and insights that have guided me through challenges, triumphs, and growth. From breaking free of limitations to embracing the power of mentorship, these principles have been instrumental in my personal and professional development. Join me in exploring these ideas that have not only helped me succeed but can inspire and empower others on their own unique journeys.

Markevis Gideon | PHOTO COURTESY OF KATIE TABELING

Identify Your Core Values: Define your core values and priorities, whether it’s faith, family, or your passion for social good, and let them guide your decisions. For me, I am a man of faith, a husband, a father, and then a social good entrepreneur. Viewing life through these lenses helps with decision-making and can benefit you too. Never compromise your core values, as it may lead to regrets.

Don’t Throw Darts in the Dark: Have a clear vision and purpose in your actions. Avoid making blind decisions without understanding the consequences. Many people believe they know what success looks like, but they often take the wrong approach, randomly throwing darts in the dark hoping for luck. Instead, turn on the lights, get your bearings, and don’t be discouraged if you don’t hit the bullseye on your first try—it takes practice.

Find Your China: Discover your unique path and purpose, as discussed in my TEDx Talk “Find Your China,” and use it as a guiding principle in life. Many individuals follow paths dictated by others, but when you identify your own “China,” it can make a world of difference in your fulfillment and impact.

Don’t Operate Under Fear: Base your decisions on courage and conviction rather than being driven by fear. Fear can hinder your progress. If you confront your fears, whether it’s quitting your job, starting a family, or traveling abroad, you’ll open yourself up to countless opportunities.

Focus on Possibilities Over Probabilities: Instead of fixating on potential setbacks, concentrate on what can go right and the opportunities ahead. Goals may seem out of reach at times, but by focusing on possibilities, you can reach greater heights. When I applied to “Shark Tank,” it didn’t seem probable to be one of the 80 businesses selected out of 40,000 applicants, but it was possible.

Don’t Let Others Impose Their Limitations on You: Embrace your unique potential, and don’t allow others to define what’s possible for you. Often, people will project their own limitations onto you, but remember that you are different. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve much more than you think.

Don’t Fear Competition; Seek Cooperation: Rather than fearing competition, explore opportunities for collaboration and partnership that can benefit all parties involved. The belief in competition can be limiting; remember that opportunities are all around us. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, and success will follow.

Embrace Mentorship and Pay It Forward: Embrace both learning from mentors and sharing your knowledge with others, creating a cycle of growth and development. I have gained valuable insights from my mentors, and it brings me joy to pass on these lessons when mentoring others. By doing so, you contribute to the well-being of your community and foster personal growth.

Give Back to Your Community: Always remember to give back and contribute to the well-being of the community that has supported and nurtured you. Without your community, you wouldn’t be the person you are today. As you reach new heights, turn around and help others from your community. We must create a space that builds a better future for all.

Snowball Effect: When people imagine a rolling snowball, they often picture it accumulating more snow as it grows, typically going downhill. However, consider what happens when you attempt to roll a small snowball uphill. It indeed gets bigger, but it becomes considerably more challenging. This parallels the challenges we face in life, where things often become more difficult before they get easier.

Markevis Gideon is the CEO of NERDiT Now.