David Phan’s Post

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Founder @ Huppy: Personal Care That Makes a Difference | Recovering Investment Banker | Sharing Everything I Learn on LinkedIn as a CPG Founder

I was bullied as a kid. When I was little, I: - Had a chip on my shoulder - Was always getting picked on - Was so ready to prove everyone wrong I didn’t know it at the time, but this influenced my desire to start a business. I was starting a business out of hate, spite, and anger. My younger self only wanted to prove everyone wrong. He wanted to tell his bullies they could never stop him from being something incredible. “I can do this. No one can tell me I was wrong.” Once I started taking on the role of a founder (and former 9-5-er)… I realized how wrong I was. All this stored-up anger, bitterness, and hatred: - Pushed me down an unsustainable path - Lead me to burnout multiple times - Put fear ahead of my passion I was letting my fear of proving myself control me. Today, I’m chasing a path of positivity, health, and happiness. This path is allowing me to: - Build a personal care company that’s HELPING people - Pursue meaningful goals that matter to me - Make more time for family and friends If I still let the negative emotions drive me as a founder… I would not only be miserable, but I’d be a terrible entrepreneur! A gentle reminder that you don’t need to be perfect. Just make sure you’re staying positive. You’ll be happier. (I promise) P.S. When was the last time you let negative feelings control you?

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Emerson Jay Murray

Father & Husband | Founder of Klinik Athletics & Jumpshot Generosity | Stunt Performer | Confidence Coach for Athletes, Youth, and Business Professionals

1mo

Thank you for sharing such a powerful and vulnerable part of your journey. It's incredible how we can transform our pain and struggles into the fuel for something greater, but it’s even more inspiring to see how you’ve shifted from that place of anger and frustration to one of positivity, health, and purpose. I can relate to that feeling of wanting to prove everyone wrong, especially when you’re in a tough place. But like you, I’ve learned that real growth happens when we let go of the negative emotions and replace them with something more empowering. Building a business from a place of passion and purpose, rather than fear or bitterness, is truly the key to sustainable success. The fact that you’re now helping others while prioritizing your own happiness and well-being is such an amazing reminder that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of our mental or physical health. Your story is inspiring—thank you for sharing it and reminding us that it's okay to not be perfect, as long as we stay focused on what really matters. Wishing you continued success and joy in everything you’re building! 🙌💫

Taylor Barnes

I create damn good LinkedIn personal brands for startup founders & investors.

1mo

The path to finding meaning can be a tough one for sure. I’m sorry you were picked on, but glad you were able to change the narrative to be the person you are today. It’s hard to admit those things.

Helen Moseley

Director | 15+ yrs experience in Investment Accounting Operations | I Help Teams with Difficulties Meeting Expectations and Adapting to Change | FOCUS - Data Analysis, Process Improvement and Training | Empathy + AI

1mo

I needed this today. I choose to be positive but sometimes it can be a challenge. I definitely want to help people but I recognize now that sometimes I need help and that’s okay. Thanks for sharing.

Andrew Nuut

Applicator of Cultural Glue. Legend maker. Time traveller currently only Delorean or Tardis available

1mo

10 minutes ago the car just cost me £410 to fix 🤣 I think you are still proving the bullies wrong - but now your way

Jonathan Jamil

Founder at Springboard | The First CX Agency Empowering Stay-at-Home Moms

1mo

similar story here

Zaynab Alam

LinkedIn ghostwriter for Personal Dev and Exec Coaches | Sharing personal branding strategies with insights from Psychology and Fiction

1mo

It’s hard to open up personal experiences but thank you for sharing - it really cements the idea that transformation should be grounded in purpose rather than trying to prove people wrong who will have judgements about you regardless.

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