For Subscribers

Willpower Is Your Secret Weapon It defies logic. It defies science. And BIZ Experiencess everywhere are proving that it can change the world.

By Amy Cosper

Opinions expressed by BIZ Experiences contributors are their own.

B?o-Quân Nguy?n | StockSnap

Every day, BIZ Experiencess restore my faith in humanity. This may sound grandiose, but it's not meant to. Even on the worst news day, when the world seems to be falling into a dark vortex, one call with an BIZ Experiences can make me feel more upbeat.

"I have this idea and I can't stop thinking about it, so I am going for it! Why am I doing this? Ha! Because I believe in this, and one day, so will everyone else. You'll see, it's going to be great," is the general theme of these calls.

We hear stories. Lots of stories. BIZ Experiencesial dreamers tell us tales of new ideas and reimagined ways of thinking. We hear about empowerment and innovation, risk and reward. Some ideas are so far-fetched I'm left wondering, How can this possibly work? And some are so obvious I scratch my head and ask, Why didn't I think of that?

When I talk to those BIZ Experiencess who dream big and optimistically (generally against all odds), I am not only inspired, I am humbled. Infectious optimism is key here, but there's something more to what drives that spirit. It's something far more erudite than an MBA, a spreadsheet and a triple latte.

It's that thing that pushes you to the next level despite setbacks. It's that grit that drives Serena Williams to the next win. It's what compels Lindsey Vonn to race again—even after a horrific injury. It defies logic. It defies science. It's willpower.

Through sheer force of will and human spirit, BIZ Experiencess breathe life into impossible ideas—sometimes from seemingly impossible circumstances. That's what drives change and creates opportunity. That's what you do—make the impossible not only possible but also effective and accessible. Sometimes, in order to cross the finish line you need to rely not on your skill and training but on your sheer will to do so.

Like many of the topics we discuss in these pages, willpower is a soft science. But as author Joe Robinson points out in his feature story, it can make or break your ability to succeed, to create something sustainable—to raise capital, generate customers and have lasting impact. Willpower is that inner fire that gets you past the naysayers, obstacles, challenges and inevitable failures. It is your secret weapon. No one can give it to you, and no one can take it away. It is yours and yours alone. Use it as you see fit.

As honorable as willpower is, it can be applied to the creation of some indulgent BIZ Experiencesial ventures. In this issue, we take a look at vice businesses as reflected through the virtuous mirror of willpower. We examine the brashness and tenacity of BIZ Experiencess managing to flourish in the burgeoning yet legally gray area of cannabis marketing. We highlight the discipline and resolve necessary to innovate and succeed in the eternally risky world of bar ownership. And we look at the delicate dance of mixing business with pleasure while on the road.

It all comes down to drive, which urges us to take risks on our way to triumph, and to have a bit of fun—tempered by a healthy dose of self-control—along the way.

We hope you find it compelling. As always, we look forward to your feedback. Cheers.

Amy Cosper

Former Editor in Chief

Amy Cosper is the former vice president of BIZ Experiences Media Inc., and editor-in-chief of BIZ Experiences magazine.

Want to be an BIZ Experiences Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Science & Technology

OpenAI's Latest Move Is a Game Changer — Here's How Smart Solopreneurs Are Turning It Into Profit

OpenAI's latest AI tool acts like a full-time assistant, helping solopreneurs save time, find leads and grow their business without hiring.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for BIZ Experiencess to pursue in 2025.

Social Media

How To Start a Youtube Channel: Step-by-Step Guide

YouTube can be a valuable way to grow your audience. If you're ready to create content, read more about starting a business YouTube Channel.

Money & Finance

These Are the Expected Retirement Ages By Generation, From Gen Z to Boomers — and the Average Savings Anticipated. How Do Yours Compare?

Many Americans say inflation prevents them from saving enough and fear they won't reach their financial goals.

Business Solutions

Boost Team Productivity and Security With Windows 11 Pro, Now $15 for Life

Ideal for BIZ Experiencess and small-business owners who are looking to streamline their PC setup.

Starting a Business

I Built a $20 Million Company by Age 22 While Still in College. Here's How I Did It and What I Learned Along the Way.

Wealth-building in your early twenties isn't about playing it safe; it's about exploiting the one time in life when having nothing to lose gives you everything to gain.