I’ve always had a love for two wheels. It started when I was 13, racing mountain bikes. That passion has stayed with me, guiding not just my time on the track but also my journey in business. Racing taught me valuable lessons that have shaped how I run Spectruss today.
Back to the day…
My introduction to racing came early. As a teenager, I raced mountain bikes all over the world. Whether it was cross country, downhill, or road races, I pushed myself to compete at the highest level. Winning titles like Tennessee State Pro Road Race Champion and SEC Division I Overall Mountain Bike Champion were some of my proudest moments.
These experiences taught me about dedication, perseverance, and the importance of pushing boundaries. These same principles became the foundation for my approach to business.
From Racing Dreams to Building a Business
In 2008, the housing market crash hit hard, and my dream of securing a pro cycling contract faded. I needed a new direction. I dropped out of Computer Programming school at UTC and started building websites to make a living. After trying various jobs, including guiding tours at the Tour de France and working as a tech rep for The North Face, I decided to start my own business, Silvey Development, in 2012.
The early days were tough. I even slept on a futon in my office for six months. But just like in racing, I knew persistence was key. Slowly, my business began to grow.
Something changed!
After years of racing bicycles, I transitioned to motorcycle racing. It wasn’t easy. My first ride on a KTM 250 XCW ended with a crash and a bruised ego. But I kept at it. Over time, I learned the ins and outs of motorcycle racing, just as I had with bicycles.
This transition wasn’t just about switching sports; it was about adapting to new challenges. Whether in racing or business, adaptability is crucial.
You need to be willing to learn, make mistakes, and keep moving forward.
My Journey with Hard Enduro
Hard Enduro racing is a demanding sport that combines trials and enduro. It involves navigating treacherous terrain, including creek beds with massive rocks and steep, technical trails. It’s a sport that requires strategy, preparation, and resilience—qualities that also define my approach to business.
In Hard Enduro, you must constantly assess the situation, make quick decisions, and adapt to changing conditions. This mirrors the challenges I face in running Spectruss, where strategic planning and quick thinking are essential.
Lessons from Racing That I Apply to My Business
Racing has taught me several lessons that I apply to my business every day. One of the most important is knowing when to push forward and when to step back and reassess. In both racing and business, there are times when you need to take a break, analyze your performance, and make adjustments.
Another key lesson is the value of preparation. Just as I spend hours preparing for a race, I put the same level of effort into planning and executing business strategies at Spectruss. This attention to detail ensures that we deliver results for our clients.
In both racing and business, there are moments when you realize a change in direction is necessary. For me, this realization came when I switched from bicycle racing to motorcycles and when I transitioned from chasing a cycling career to founding Spectruss.
Recognizing when to pivot is crucial. It’s about understanding that what worked before might not work now and being willing to take bold steps to stay on track.
Staying Focused on the End Goal
Whether in racing or business, having a clear goal is essential. My racing schedule and the growth of Spectruss are both driven by a clear vision of where I want to go. This focus helps me stay motivated, even when the path isn’t easy.
In business, as in racing, you need to keep your eyes on the prize. There will be obstacles, but staying committed to your goal will guide you through.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Me and Spectruss?
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the challenges that await, both in racing and in business. My upcoming races are an opportunity to push myself further, just as I continue to push Spectruss to new heights.
The lessons I’ve learned from racing—dedication, adaptability, and strategic thinking—will continue to influence how I lead Spectruss. I’m committed to helping our clients achieve their goals, just as I strive to achieve mine on the track.
If you’re reading this, feeling the same regarding your business and you are ready to take it to the next level, I invite you to connect with me.
Let’s discuss how we can apply these lessons to help your business succeed. And if you have a story of your own about pivoting or overcoming challenges in business, I’d love to hear it. Reach out, and let’s continue the chat.
