Connor’s Blog

I regularly get caught in the whirlwind of starting new projects, only to leave them half-baked, scattered like unfinished symphonies. If you are like me, you’re not alone. Welcome to the club of enthusiastic starters — the dreamers, the doers, the perpetual beginners. But what if I told you that there’s a magic line, a boundary that, once crossed, transforms your endeavours into masterpieces? It’s time to delve into the world of completing tasks and developing a finishing mentality.

The Allure of New Beginnings:

There’s an undeniable thrill in the initial stages of a project — the brainstorming sessions, the whiteboard full of ideas, and the rush of excitement as you envision the final product. It’s like standing at the edge of a cliff, ready to leap into the unknown. And let’s be honest, starting is easy; it’s finishing that often proves elusive.

The Unfinished Symphony:

I’ve been there, done that — started countless projects with unbridled enthusiasm, only to leave them languishing in the archives of my mind. It’s the classic case of the ‘shiny object syndrome,’ where the allure of new ideas beckons before the current ones reach fruition. But why do we do this to ourselves? Is it a fear of failure, a lack of discipline, or perhaps just an insatiable thirst for novelty?

The Power of Crossing the Line:

Imagine a magical line drawn in the sand, a point of no return where starting transforms into finishing. Crossing this line is an art, a skill that elevates your projects from mere concepts to tangible achievements. It’s about cultivating a finishing mentality — a commitment to seeing things through, no matter how enticing the next shiny object may be.

Finding Your Crossing Ritual:

So, how do you cross this transformative line? It begins with finding your crossing ritual. It could be a simple act — a declaration to yourself, a symbolic gesture, or even a physical motion. The key is to make it personal, something that resonates with your journey and signifies your transition from a starter to a finisher.

Embracing Imperfections:

One of the stumbling blocks on the path to completion is the pursuit of perfection. We often hesitate to finish something because it doesn’t meet our lofty standards. But here’s the secret — perfection is overrated. Embrace the beauty of imperfection, relish the flaws, and celebrate the uniqueness of your finished product. It’s the quirks that make it truly yours.

The Joy of Completion:

There’s a unique joy that comes with completing a task. It’s more than just a sense of accomplishment; it’s a validation of your dedication, a testament to your perseverance. Crossing that line transforms your projects from mere possibilities into tangible evidence of your capabilities.

Building Momentum:

Once you’ve tasted the sweetness of completion, momentum becomes your ally. Each finished project becomes a stepping stone, propelling you forward with increasing confidence. You become a serial finisher, and the habit of completion becomes an integral part of your creative DNA.

In Conclusion:

So, to my fellow enthusiasts of beginnings, let’s challenge ourselves to cross the line more often. Let’s revel in the joy of completion, relish the imperfections, and build a legacy of finished masterpieces. After all, the true magic lies not just in starting but in crossing that elusive line that transforms dreams into reality. Are you ready to cross the line and embrace the art of completion? The journey awaits.

In the glittering world of early-stage investing, where promises are as abundant as venture pitches, a peculiar language of little white lies often echoes between VCs and founders. It’s a dance of diplomacy and deception that both sides partake in, a cryptic code that requires a seasoned translator. Let’s peel back the layers of these lies and unveil the truths they cloak, offering a guide for beginners entering this labyrinthine realm. 

VC Lies Unveiled:

1. “We’re interested in your company but it’s too early for us right now.”

Translation: We adore your charisma, but your business idea needs a life jacket. If you’re back for another round, it’s a hint that something worked, just not enough for us to dive in. Farewell, and good luck on your entrepreneurial quest.

2. “We’re focused on change and investing in only the smartest entrepreneurs.”

Translation: We stick to our inner circle and anyone who’s a graduate of the top programs. The revolution is secondary; friendships and pedigrees take precedence.

3. “We support founders from start to exit.”

Translation: We support founders until we decide it’s time to jump ship or until we find a shinier investment opportunity. The commitment lasts until it doesn’t.

Bonus: “We invest in diverse founders.”

Translation: Our investment team is a mirror image of each other, with diversity being a distant concept. Actions speak louder than words, and our team photos prove it.

Founder Lies Unraveled:

1. “We are co-founders who just simply love working together, we support each other’s strengths and weaknesses.”

Translation: One founder loves the limelight but can’t code, so they’ve claimed the CEO title. The other is a coding virtuoso — coding, they do it all.

2. “Our vision is to be the go-to in our industry within the next 10 years.”

Translation: The founders have a vision board, but it’s more wishful thinking than a strategic roadmap. Ambition is there, detailed plans, not so much.

3. “Our TAM is $1000TRN; all we need is 10% of that market, and you can only imagine the possibilities.”

Translation: The founders haven’t delved into market research; their TAM is a wild estimate fueled by blind optimism and a handful of supportive friends. The possibilities are vast, but the groundwork is shaky.

Bonus: “We are looking for a strategic partner to be our investor.”

Translation: We’re not picky; we just need someone with a chequebook. Desperation hides behind the facade of strategic partnership aspirations.

In this intricate dance of lies, the key is not to get lost in the misdirection. Both VCs and founders play their part in crafting a narrative that may stray from reality. It’s a world where transparency is a rare gem, and deciphering the truth requires a keen eye and a sense of humour. So, strap in, dear reader, as we embark on a journey through the twists and turns of the unspoken language of early-stage investing.

The year 2020 brought an unexpected shift to the way we work, as the COVID-19 pandemic forced organizations worldwide to adopt remote work models. While working from home (WFH) became the norm, it was merely the tip of the iceberg in the broader transformation of the work landscape. As we look toward the future, it's evident that the future of work is decentralized, but it's not confined to the traditional home office.

Embracing Decentralization:

Decentralization in the workplace involves breaking away from the centralized, office-centric model and empowering employees to work from various locations. While WFH played a crucial role during the pandemic, the future of work extends beyond the home office. Companies are now exploring flexible work arrangements that allow employees to choose their work environments based on their needs and preferences.

1. Remote Work Hubs: Organizations are investing in remote work hubs or satellite offices located in different cities or regions. These hubs serve as collaborative spaces where employees can gather, fostering teamwork and innovation. This approach allows for a hybrid model, combining the benefits of remote work with the advantages of in-person collaboration.

2. Co-Working Spaces: The rise of co-working spaces is another aspect of the decentralized future of work. Rather than being tethered to a corporate office, employees can choose to work in shared spaces that offer a dynamic and collaborative environment. Co-working spaces provide the infrastructure and community support necessary for productivity without the rigidity of a traditional office.

3. Nomadic Workstyles: An emerging trend is the adoption of nomadic workstyles. Employees are no longer bound to a single location and can choose to work from different cities or even countries. This not only enhances individual flexibility but also contributes to a diverse and inclusive work culture.

Technology as the Enabler:

The decentralization of work is made possible by advancements in technology. Cloud computing, collaboration tools, and virtual communication platforms have become integral to the new work paradigm. Companies are investing in secure and scalable technologies that facilitate seamless collaboration regardless of physical location.

1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): The integration of VR and AR technologies is transforming virtual collaboration. Meetings, conferences, and collaborative projects can now be conducted in immersive digital environments, creating a sense of presence and enhancing the virtual work experience.

2. Blockchain for Remote Work Security: As the workforce becomes more decentralized, ensuring the security of remote work environments is paramount. Blockchain technology is being explored for its potential in enhancing the security of remote work transactions, protecting sensitive information, and ensuring the integrity of digital collaboration.

Conclusion:

The future of work is undoubtedly decentralized, breaking away from the traditional office-centric model. While WFH was a crucial stepping stone, it was just the beginning of a broader transformation. Companies that embrace decentralization by investing in remote work hubs, co-working spaces, and flexible work arrangements will not only attract top talent but also foster innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving global landscape. As we navigate this new era of work, the fusion of technology and decentralization promises a future where work is not just a place but a dynamic and inclusive experience.

For years, I championed that globalization was a game-changer, a force that would propel emerging economies into prosperity, creating a more interconnected and harmonious world. But as I reevaluate my stance, I’ve come to a startling realization: globalization can have serious drawbacks for business and society. I don’t want London to feel like NYC or Los Angeles to resemble Tokyo. I believe it’s more beneficial for cities and societies to maintain their uniqueness. However, let’s explore the complex relationship between globalization and segregation and see why this issue is not as straightforward as it may seem.

Imagine a world where every city looked the same, where the streets of London, New York City, and Tokyo were indistinguishable. It might sound like a dystopian nightmare, but it’s a risk we run as globalization pushes us towards cultural homogenization. The global economy promotes standardization, and this can strip away the unique character of different places. However, is it fair to label this as “bad” when viewed in the light of segregation?

I don’t want London to feel like NYC. I appreciate the distinct charm of each city, from London’s historical elegance to New York’s bustling cosmopolitan vibe. But before we wholly condemn globalization, let’s remember that segregation is a far more insidious evil. The dangers of segregation are evident throughout history, from the racial segregation of the American South to the religious divisions in the Middle East.

To illustrate this point, let’s consider the example of cuisine. Globalization has given us access to a world of flavours. In the heart of London, you can savour the finest Japanese sushi, just as you can find an authentic Italian pizzeria in New York City. Would we prefer a world where London only offers British cuisine and New York sticks solely to American classics? While preserving cultural uniqueness is essential, the ability to explore different cultures through food is a remarkable aspect of globalization.

Moreover, globalization has brought nations together in ways that were unimaginable in the past. The internet connects people across the globe, allowing us to learn, share, and collaborate, regardless of our physical location. It has played a significant role in breaking down barriers, fostering understanding, and promoting peace. In stark contrast, segregation often leads to misunderstandings, mistrust, and conflict between different groups.

Yes, globalization has its downsides, and we must be vigilant to protect the unique character of our cities and societies. We don’t want every place to be a carbon copy of the next. However, it’s important to remember that globalization isn’t as inherently destructive as segregation. It can promote diversity and understanding if managed wisely.

In the end, the challenge lies in striking a balance. We can appreciate the benefits of globalization without succumbing to cultural uniformity. Let’s celebrate the diversity of our world’s cities and societies and actively preserve the characteristics that make them unique. But let’s also be mindful that we don’t unknowingly slide into the abyss of segregation, a far greater threat to our shared humanity. So, while I may have tempered my enthusiasm for globalization, I must acknowledge its role in creating a more interconnected and, ultimately, more harmonious world.

I am happy to officially announce that earlier this year I joined Tomahawk VC, it is public knowledge but I haven't had the opportunity to announce it properly and share the future plans. 

As a member of the investment team. I will be working on pre-seed/seed investments, portfolio management and investment strategy. This next step in my career has accelerated my aspirations to build a career in venture capital/private equity.

I’ve been investing and raising capital for startups for the last 7 years as an angel or through syndicates, with a focus on the “new economy”. Crypto, fintech, sports, entertainment, proptech, insurtech. This was all building towards a greater vision and goals. My knowledge, experience, skills and network have grown dramatically since the first startup syndicate I was involved with but even more since I watched the documentary piqued my curiosity “Something Ventured” in 2016, it gave me an insight into what was possible with venture capital and I have always wanted to join a venture capital firm and be a part of that history. 

Background on Tomahawk VC.

The firm was started by Cedric Waldburger & Claude Donze, Tomahawk VC is an early-stage investor headquartered in Zurich. 2 years on the company has 9 people including a new Partner in Massimo Scheappi focused and dedicated to Fintech. Tomahawk.VC presented me with the opportunity to be a part of something far bigger than myself.

Joining a venture capital firm at this stage in my life/career is exactly what I need to motivate me and push me to continue to achieve. 

Here are 3 reasons why I am joining Tomahawk.VC:

1. People matter — Luckily, I have built great relationships all around the world and one of them happens to be a successful VC investor named Cedric Waldburger. We’ve spent some time, and shared family, personal and business memories together. The one thing I can say is I have always been inspired to do more when I am with Cedric. When Cedric told me he was starting Tomahawk.VC in 2019, I was very interested in supporting the growth but unfortunately at the time, I had many other commitments. 2021 started a new phase for me, I dialled down my commitments and decided that I wanted to really make my mark, the business that made the most sense was venture capital. Considering I have years of investing, startup building and networking experience. There was an opportunity to join the team as a Venture Scout and took the chance to work with some great people. Over the last few weeks, I have had the pleasure of catching up with Massimo Schaeppi, Claude Donze and the rest of the team. What a smart bunch of people with whom I look forward to working. 
   
   
2. Timing is everything — I’ve been preparing myself for something like this for a long time, personally investing in startups, raising capital, meeting new founders and building a network from scratch. In the past things have gone wrong which is great because that has taught me a lot. Previously I have said that I want to join an organisation in which I can have youthful energy but have a higher level of maturity to bring a lot of value to the table. Now is the perfect time for this, in both Tomahawk’s cycle and my own.
    
3. Opportunity to impact the world — I approached Cedric about the idea of joining Tomahawk.VC was on the notion that the plan was to invest in startups that want to change the world. He showed me this article and I was convinced that the future is bright and that I had to be a part of it. In life, you only get a few chances to make an impact and this is one of them. Especially considering our model is not financial only, we look to be the best business partners for our portfolio companies. This means we will be contributing to society, the economy and the ecosystem. 

My initial role at Tomahawk.VC will be as I make the transition from Entrepreneur to VC. I am looking to meet with the founders of Fintech/Defi companies across Europe. Additionally, I have a further focus on UK/IE and other English-speaking nations. 

If you are a founder in this space or know any founders in this space please reach out to connor@tomahawk.vc

Let’s have a quick chat 

Stay Hungry

Connor