Recently I was asked by Shahbaaz Kara-Virani to share my thoughts on whether the cannabis industry requires any unique leadership skills. I respect Shahbaaz tremendously for his leadership and communications skills so I thought long and hard before sharing the following thoughts:
- Have the courage of your convictions. Building a great company is a marathon. Stick to your vision and don’t be distracted by the noise.
- Trust your gut. Cannabis is a brand new legal industry, there are no formulas. Use your common sense and don’t be afraid to think differently.
- Data might be lean on the ground (especially at first) but use it when you can get it.
- Be humble. No one is an expert in a new emerging industry. Surround yourself with smart people and seek out their perspective – ESPECIALLY if it is different than your own.
In 2016, I saw an opportunity in the emerging global cannabis industry. I knew that the industry was going to require objective, scientific data on cannabis product effects to realize its full potential. Many disagreed with my vision; however my gut feeling and common sense (that neurotechnology had the power to help me achieve my vision), made me believe and stick to it.
