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Grandma calls them “role models.” Politicians call them “DEI hires.” We call them “rebel archetypes” — rogue, defiant and unstoppable pioneers revolutionizing systems, defining power and building the queendom for all.
In the mind’s eye of these entrepreneurs, investors and leaders, every month is a celebration of Black history; every day is a fresh opportunity to elevate the voices of powerful women around the world. Below are 10 wild and unruly tips from global legends to challenge all rebels, underdogs and allies to flip traditional business narratives and make every day International Women’s Day.
Related: Being Daring and Disruptive is How Great Pioneers Conquer Their Industry
Wild and unruly way #1: Embrace the hot mess
Entrepreneurs who embrace imperfections and remain flexible are better equipped to navigate an ever-changing business landscape. By accepting that not everything will be flawless from the outset, you can focus on iterative improvements and adapt more quickly to market feedback. This mindset allows for greater creativity, resilience and, ultimately, sustainable growth.
One rebel archetype I personally admire, Máirín Murray, CEO of TechFoundHer, says that her team is championing a new way of innovating. “One of the biggest shifts we’ve embraced is the bold call to ‘F*ck Perfection.’ Instead of getting trapped in impossible standards, we encourage women to jump in, create something real and learn on the fly — setting their own rules as tech entrepreneurs.”
Wild and unruly way #2: Follow the path of the unicorn
As an entrepreneur building the empire, you must spend time with rebel archetypes who have already been where you are going. Seasoned mentors can offer firsthand perspectives on navigating challenges and reducing potentially expensive errors. With this invaluable support, you’ll receive advice, networking opportunities and resources to effectively manage the intricacies of developing a prosperous enterprise.
Another rebel archetype I admire is Shelin David, CEO of Shebacks.me, who says, “Find mentors who are already where you want to be. Experience is an underestimated asset, and learning from those who have walked the path before you — whether in business, career transitions or navigating complex challenges — can accelerate your own journey.”
Wild and unruly way #3: Sleep your way to the top
We’re talking about REM here, so get your mind out of the gutter. Entrepreneurs must prioritize self-care activities, particularly sleep, to sustain the energy, focus and resilience required to succeed. Research consistently shows that adequate sleep enhances cognitive function, decision-making and creativity — critical skills for navigating the complexities of running a business. By making self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine, you will avoid burnout, maintain peak performance and ensure you are physically and mentally equipped to lead your ventures effectively over the long term.
Flossie Hall, CEO of Stella Foundation, is another rebel archetype I admire. Hall says that strategic rest is a leadership skill, not a weakness. “I used to glorify burnout, believing that constant hustle equated to success. Now, I fiercely protect time for activities that reset my mind — whether it’s playing golf, stepping away for a walk or unplugging for deep thinking. Ironically, stepping away often leads to my biggest breakthroughs.”
Wild and unruly way #4: Strategically hob-nob
First, do your research. Then, only accept meetings and participate in educational programs with investors and partners who have shown a proven interest in companies like yours (e.g., the stage of the company, the geographical location and, very importantly, the gender and race of the founder matches well with what the investor or partner historically supports). Next, interact daily on LinkedIn. Virtual networking will open doors and help you build long-lasting relationships vital to your entrepreneurial success.
Another rebel archetype I admire, Joy Fairbanks, the founder and Managing Principal at Fairbanks Venture Advisors, says she has seen tech serve as an equalizer for diverse founders and investors. “Technology may be leveraged to boost what you know, who you know and increase the chance of success for people who have been on the fringes of tightly knit relationship networks.”
Related: 7 Entrepreneurial Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day
Wild and unruly way #5: Become a serial entrepreneur
By engaging in a dynamic cycle of starting, scaling, exiting and recreating multiple ventures, you can build business empires on your own terms. Statistics show that serial entrepreneurs have a higher likelihood of success in subsequent ventures. With this approach, you’ll leverage your accumulated experience, network and resources to forge a golden path to financial freedom.
I also admire Mirela Sula, another rebel archetype who’s the founder and CEO of Global Woman Club. Sula says they are witnessing a powerful shift — more and more women are starting their own businesses, scaling them, exiting and then creating and recreating again — building empires on their own terms. “We are living in a time of massive transformation, and women everywhere are stepping up, taking control of their financial futures and making bold, strategic moves. By embracing equity, we are building a future where women don’t just participate in the economy; they lead it.”
Wild and unruly way #6: Manifest winning
Dwelling on issues and constraints can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy of failure. Smart business owners spot problems a