My daughter recently decided she wanted to see The Wizard of Oz. Although we purged many of our luxuries before leaving the US for the endless summer in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica, we did keep a small collection of DVDs and brought them with us. I had figured out how to use my Apple TV and then Xbox One to get the US version of Netflix and Amazon Video, but that isn’t always reliable due to the internet speeds available here. (NOTE: Netflix no longer works for us in Costa Rica) In fact, our decision not to stay beyond a school year in Costa Rica is largely due to the unreliable internet. The other reason is because I came to make a living being self-employed. Either as a developer or a consultant, I thought my experience and skills as a construction manager coupled with my Spanish fluency would easily translate into projects and work that would earn an income. Instead, I became heavily involved volunteering at my children’s school, directed and coached the school’s soccer program and started an independent youth soccer program. The endless summer here also made me feel like I was always on vacation. I had my own swimming coach, went running, open water swimming or mountain biking all the time, participated in 10k and Triathlon competitions, and enjoyed the Pura Vida life in general.

I digress.

While I watched The Wizard of Oz, I realized that the parable could be applied as a lesson for entrepreneurs and those who take risks to improve their life and lifestyle. Using our heart, our courage and our brain equally, I believe entrepreneurs will find their success in achieving their goals and vision.

At least that’s what I got out of it when I watched it with my kids.