Eric Lefkofsky Quotes

Powerful Eric Lefkofsky for Daily Growth

About Eric Lefkofsky

Eric Lefkofsky is an illustrious entrepreneur, philanthropist, and innovator who has significantly impacted the technology industry. Born on February 28, 1969, in Southfield, Michigan, Lefkofsky spent his formative years in Detroit before moving to Chicago to attend the University of Michigan where he earned a Bachelor's degree in both Economics and Government. Following graduation, Lefkofsky attended law school at the University of Michigan Law School, subsequently working as an attorney for the law firm Sidley Austin. However, his entrepreneurial spirit was too strong to be contained, leading him to co-found Infinity Pharmaceuticals in 1995, a company focused on discovering and developing therapeutics for cancer treatment. In 1999, Lefkofsky co-founded Groupon, the world's premier destination for local commerce, later serving as its CEO from 2008 to 2013. In addition to his work with Groupon, Lefkofsky is also the co-founder of Lightbank, an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to investing in digital technology companies; Echo Global Logistics, a technology-enabled freight brokerage company; Uptake Technologies, a predictive analytics software provider for industries like manufacturing and transportation; and Tempus, a technology company that aims to make healthcare more data-driven. Lefkofsky's influence extends beyond the corporate world as he is deeply committed to philanthropy. He and his wife, Liz, founded The Lefkofsky Family Foundation in 2010 with the mission of supporting education, medical research, and cultural institutions. Eric Lefkofsky continues to be a trailblazer in technology and philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on the world through his innovative spirit, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Some notable Eric Lefkofsky quotes include: 1. "If you're not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you waited too long." 2. "In the startup world, everyone should focus on building their business with the idea that they will eventually sell it to a larger company." 3. "Entrepreneurship is the last refuge of the troublemaker."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"You don't learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing and falling over."

This quote by Eric Lefkofsky emphasizes the importance of practical experience and learning through action, rather than just theoretical knowledge or adhering to strict guidelines. It suggests that true understanding comes from trying new things and making mistakes along the way, as these experiences help us grow and improve our skills. This perspective encourages a more hands-on approach to learning, where failure is viewed not as an end, but as a step toward success.


"The only limits are those we set upon ourselves."

This quote emphasizes personal potential and self-imposed limitations. It suggests that one's capabilities are not predetermined or inherently finite, but rather are dependent on the restrictions we impose upon ourselves mentally and emotionally. In other words, our beliefs, fears, and doubts often act as self-created barriers that limit our growth and achievements. By recognizing and overcoming these internal limitations, individuals can unlock their true potential and achieve great things.


"Entrepreneurship is a mindset that can be embraced by anyone, regardless of circumstance or industry."

This quote by Eric Lefkofsky suggests that the spirit of entrepreneurship, which involves identifying opportunities and creating value through innovative ideas, is not limited to a specific group of people or industries. Instead, anyone with a willingness to take risks, solve problems, and create something new can adopt this mindset. It encourages everyone to look for possibilities and seize them, regardless of their background or current situation.


"Innovation is the lifeblood of every great company."

This quote by Eric Lefkofsky emphasizes that continuous innovation is essential for a company's survival and growth. Innovation refers to the development of new ideas, methods, or products that offer competitive advantages. It is through these advancements that companies can stay relevant, adapt to market changes, and outperform their competitors. Therefore, innovation serves as the vital source of energy, or "lifeblood", that fuels a company's success in today's dynamic business environment.


"Every day brings a choice: use energy to focus on the obstacles or use energy to focus on the solutions."

This quote emphasizes the power of perspective in overcoming challenges. Every day, we face various obstacles that could potentially hinder our progress or drain our energy. However, Eric Lefkofsky suggests focusing not on the obstacles themselves but rather on finding solutions to them. By channeling our energy towards problem-solving, we can turn potential setbacks into opportunities for growth and success. This quote serves as a reminder that our mindset plays a crucial role in shaping our experiences and outcomes.


I'm going to start a lot of companies. These are not sham companies. These are great businesses.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Going, Lot, Companies, Sham

I think there are four or five interesting pockets where a lot of cool technology companies are getting started. Chicago is one of them. New York is certainly another. Silicon Valley really dominates. And you're seeing some stuff out of Boston and Seattle and down South.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Boston, Some, I Think, Technology Companies

To me, no one has fully cracked the code on social recruiting yet.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Me, Social, Code, Recruiting

The big success stories - Facebook, Zynga and Twitter - are leading to investing in ideas on a napkin, because no one wants to miss out on the next big thing.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Big, Next, Stories, Napkin

The West coast money and the East coast money, in an ever-increasing manner, is finding its way to Chicago.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Money, East, Coast, East Coast

My weeks tend to differ pretty dramatically.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Pretty, Tend, Weeks, Dramatically

Studying doesn't have to happen in a silo. It can be a social experience. You can engage with your friends and family to find out the answer to a tough question or have someone explain it to you. You can also study anywhere you happen to be and on any device.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Study, Happen, Explain, Device

I've been part of founding three companies that have gone public. It doesn't seem like a big number, but it's actually a lot.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Big, Like, Been, Founding

Any business that is looking for new customers needs to understand the Internet and how to market their goods or services through it.

- Eric Lefkofsky

New, Through, Needs, Customers

Think about the way most companies currently hire. You post a job and then get blind resumes in response. This should be a social experience.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Think, Blind, Hire, Response

I'm going to be in technology for a long time.

- Eric Lefkofsky

Time, Technology, Going, Long Time

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