I’m writing this from the sideline of a field hockey pitch.

Laptop open. Travel espresso cooling next to me. One eye on the screen, one on the pitch. Technically working. Completely where I need to be.

This is the setup I built when I started Linelia. Not a fixed office with fixed hours. A structure that moves with me, as far as client meetings and mandates allow it. That sounds like a lifestyle statement. It isn’t. It is an operational decision with real constraints and real discipline behind it.

My daughters both play field hockey. The elder one trains and plays several times a week, the younger a bit less. I try to be there as much as I can. Sometimes I am on a call at the edge of the pitch. Sometimes I am finishing a draft while they run their warmup drills. But I am there, I check in regularly, and they know where to find me. I would not trade this for anything.

Does this mean working fewer hours? Honestly, no. Running my own company probably means more hours than many of my corporate years. The difference is in how those hours are distributed, and who decides where they go. An evening at the desk after both girls are in bed feels entirely different from the same evening dictated by a calendar someone else built. One is a choice. The other was a condition.

The founder work-life integration setup that actually works

Founder work-life integration sounds great on paper. In practice, without a few firm rules, it becomes neither good work nor good presence. Here is what makes it functional rather than just aspirational.

“The flexibility to work from anywhere is only worth something if you also know when not to.”

1. Know the difference between sideline presence and full presence

Training sessions, games, school pickups, meals, bedtime. All of those are in the calendar and protected. But the level of presence varies by moment, and being honest about that is the whole point.

During training, the approach is more fluid. A call at the edge of the pitch, a voice memo during a drill break, a quick reply between exercises. I am on the sideline. I am checking in. That counts. Games are different — more present, less screen. And when both of them are playing on the same day, that is a different category altogether. Laptop stays in the bag. No exceptions.

2. Voice memos and offline drafts

An idea doesn’t wait for a desk. During warmup of my eldest daughter today, something clicked about a client challenge I’ve been turning over for days. Thirty seconds into the voice memo app, the thought was captured. Then I put the phone away and watched the warm-up drills.

No half-present scrolling. No “let me just quickly check.” The thought is safe. I can be here now. This post started as three bullet points in a Notes app, written while she was doing stretches on the far side of the pitch. The full draft came later. The thinking happened at the pitch.

“The thought is safe. I can be here now!”

3. Hockey sessions in the calendar with the same weight as a client call

Hockey sessions do not move. They are in my calendar with the same weight as a board presentation. Non-negotiable. Non-moveable.

What gets scheduled gets protected. Everything else finds its place around it. This is not a new productivity principle. It is just one that most founders fail to apply to their personal commitments with the same rigour they apply to professional ones. Your daughter’s training session is a commitment. Treat it like one.

4. AI tools that make compact work actually possible

One thing that has quietly made the whole setup more workable: AI tools. Research, first drafts, briefing summaries, client prep, follow-up emails. Work that once required two uninterrupted hours at a desk can now happen in focused twenty-minute slots between warmup and kickoff. I am not using AI to work less. I use it to work in smaller, sharper intervals, which is exactly what a setup like this demands. A voice memo captured on the pitch becomes a finished document by the time I am back at the desk.

The line that doesn’t move

All of this works because I know where the hard line is.

The line is clearest when both of them are playing. Those days, the laptop stays in the bag. Not because I scheduled it that way. Because some things are not a blend, and a day with both girls on the pitch at the same time is one of them.

But even on a regular training session, there is a version of the same line. When one of them looks up from the pitch to find me, I am looking back. Not at a screen. That is the only thing that actually matters about being there.

Founder work-life integration doesn’t mean always blending. It means knowing which moments belong entirely to one thing. The freedom to work from anywhere only means something if you also have the discipline to be somewhere fully when it matters.

In my work at Linelia, I spend a lot of time with leaders who are building something sustainable. Organizations and ways of working that don’t depend on one person being permanently available. The same principle applies to how you run your own day. Build the structure once. Then trust it.

“Build the structure once. Then trust it.”

One more honest note. Every rule has its exceptions. Real urgency happens, and a client in a crisis on a hockey day doesn’t wait for the final whistle. But these moments are rarer than you’d expect. And when they do happen, I’m genuinely lucky that my wife has the same kind of flexible setup. She can step in, be fully present at the pitch, and I can deal with what needs dealing with. That shared flexibility is not a footnote to the system. It is what makes the whole thing hold.

If you’re thinking about how to build a working setup that fits both your clients and your life, I’d be glad to compare notes. Reach out via the Linelia contact page or connect with me directly on LinkedIn.

Common questions

The post Founder Dad Mode: Why I Work From the Field Hockey Pitch appeared first on Linelia.io.

When you prepare a keynote, you’re forced to make choices.

• What really matters?
• What’s noise?
• What can you confidently stand behind in front of a room full of experienced people?

Last week, I had the chance to do exactly that while traveling for an afterwork event in Barcelona, a city I’ll never complain about visiting. Work trip, good conversations, a different setting… not the worst combination at all.

What made it even better was that the keynote took place in the evening.
Which meant: hybrid working at its best. I could work a full day remotely from Barcelona and then head to the event later on.

Thanks to OneCoWork, I found a great spot to work from during the day. Highly recommended if you ever need a productive base in this beautiful city.

And yes, I also managed to squeeze in a bit of sightseeing in between. Purely for cultural reasons, of course.

The session itself was made possible by CNQR, and it gave me a great opportunity to step out of my usual routines and reflect more deliberately.

What follows is not a trend report.
It’s a little look behind the scenes at how I prepare for such a talk and why the way these topics emerged matters more than the list itself.

I don’t start with trends. I start with work.

When I prepare a keynote, I don’t begin with slides or hype cycles.

I start with questions like:

• What keeps coming up in projects?
• Where do teams struggle to make decisions?
• Which topics suddenly feel “urgent”, even if they weren’t planned?
• What kind of cold call emails C-level starts forwarding?

If I don’t see a topic in my day-to-day work, it doesn’t make it onto the stage.

That’s why these 10 topics are not predictions.

They’re patterns I’ve observed repeatedly across different organizations, industries, and maturity levels.

Being honest about expertise (and why that matters)

One important thing I’m always very open about:

I’m not the deepest expert in every single one of these fields.
And I don’t think that’s a weakness.

My role is usually not to execute every detail myself, but to:

• Understand why a topic matters
• See the business impact
• Know when it becomes relevant
• and, very importantly, know who can execute it properly

This is where my network becomes a real asset.

I can rely on people I trust. Specialists, practitioners, builders, who go deep where depth is needed. That allows me to stay focused on translation, alignment, and decision-making rather than pretending to know everything.

At the same time, I do hold myself to a clear standard.
I don’t want to be the kind of consultant who only scratches the surface of every topic.

My ambition is to understand these areas well enough to discuss them in depth, challenge assumptions, and assess their real impact on business decisions. That means investing time, staying curious, and continuously learning & networking, even in areas where others might go deeper technically.

And where I feel that my own expertise reaches its limits, I prefer to be explicit about it.

Transparency beats pretending.

In my experience, that honesty creates better collaboration, clearer expectations, and ultimately better outcomes.

The 10 marketing topics (short and to the point)

Here’s the condensed version of what I shared on stage intentionally brief and impact-focused:

1. Volatility as the new baseline

Planning under stable assumptions becomes the exception. Marketing teams increasingly optimize for flexibility, optionality, and fast adjustment rather than long-term certainty.

2. Measurement remains fragmented

The challenge is no longer missing data, but conflicting signals (cookies, IDs, etc.). Teams need to make decisions with imperfect inputs and align measurement with business questions, not dashboards.

3. Consent as a strategic signal

As tracking erodes, explicit consent becomes more valuable. It signals trust, relevance, intent and shifts focus from scale to quality of relationships.

4. Clean rooms as infrastructure

Less glamorous than tools or platforms, but essential. Clean rooms enable collaboration across data silos while respecting privacy and governance constraints.

5. Messaging as the storefront

In complex journeys, messaging often decides before channels do. Clear narratives help users understand value quickly, especially when attention is fragmented.

6. Search becomes an answer layer

With AI-driven interfaces, search increasingly provides answers, not links. Visibility depends more on authority, structure, and clarity than pure traffic optimization.

7. AI agents enter the decision chain

Agents already compare, summarize, and pre-filter options. Marketing will need to consider how information is consumed by machines, not just humans.

8. Creators move closer to revenue

The role of creators shifts from reach to trust. They become contextual explainers and authentic bridges between brands and audiences.

9. Brand built like performance

Brand work becomes more iterative and measurable. Hypotheses, testing, and feedback loops replace long-term bets without validation.

10. Culture as last unfair advantage

With tools widely accessible, execution quality differentiates teams. Decision clarity, trust, and speed increasingly determine marketing effectiveness.

None of these topics are revolutionary on their own.
What’s new is how simultaneously they affect organizations.

Why speaking about this matters to me

Preparing for this keynote reminded me why I enjoy these moments so much.

They force me to step back, connect dots, and articulate things that are often felt but not named inside organizations.

And they confirm something I see again and again:
Trends only matter when they translate into decisions.

Everything else is just noise.

A final thought

I don’t expect organizations to “master” all of these topics in 2026.

But I do believe that the ability to recognize patterns early, discuss them openly, and bring the right people to the table will make a real difference – as usual.

That’s what I try to do in my work.

On stage, in projects, and in conversations.

If you’re curious how I support organizations in turning such patterns into concrete decisions and operating models, you can find more about my work here: Linelia’s services.

And as always, I’m happy to continue the conversation, wherever it happens next.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST: If you should be looking for a great speaker coach, check out Janik Adorf. I once again realized in Barcelona that I should soon book a session with him.

The post From the field to the stage: how I arrived at 10 marketing topics for 2026 appeared first on Linelia.io.

The new year always brings a certain positive energy. Budgets reopen, priorities get sharper, and suddenly “later” from last year becomes “now.”

I know this dynamic well from both angles. In my SaaS time at VRdirect, Q4 was often about making deals happen. At EnBW and L’Oréal, it was also the phase where remaining budgets were consciously invested in new initiatives or innovation.

As a founder, this perspective shifts again.

Today, I focus on positioning early in the year. Meet & catch-up with people and have conversations while options are just opening up.

Timing creates clarity

At the beginning of the year, many enterprises start to look ahead and operationalize previously planned budgets. Not always with concrete mandates, but with questions like:

Which topics deserve early attention?

Closely followed by more practical considerations:

• Do we have the right resources in place?
• Is now the right moment to start with project XYZ?
• What would help us move faster or more confidently?

These conversations tend to happen when there is still room to think, shape, and choose.

Starting dialogue early isn’t about acceleration.
It’s about alignment.

What changes when you run your own business

In corporate environments, structure absorbs a lot of uncertainty.

Transitions follow processes. Planning cycles provide orientation.

Looks like founder life works differently.

You actively need to create options through awareness, relationships, and timing.

And you learn that looking ahead is less about predicting outcomes and more about staying ready for them.

Over time, this should become a source of stability rather than stress.

Conversations come before projects

One thing that has stayed constant throughout my career is this:

Meaningful projects start with trust.

That’s why my focus right now is on staying connected, exchanging perspectives, and listening carefully to what others are planning.

Sometimes these conversations turn into something concrete months later.
Sometimes they don’t.

Both outcomes are valuable.

Because every exchange builds shared context — and context is what makes good collaboration possible when timing aligns.

Micro-Practice:
Once a month, I take 20 minutes to review:
– Who did I speak with recently?
– What topics came up repeatedly?
– Where might timing become relevant later in the year?

No actions attached.
Just awareness.

It’s a simple way to stay oriented without turning everything into a task list.

Looking ahead with intention

Approaching things this way allows me to stay fully present in my current work while calmly shaping what comes next.

Early conversations create choice.
Choice creates calm.
And calm creates better work.

So yes, I’m intentionally starting these conversations now openly, thoughtfully, and with a positive outlook on what the year can bring.

If you’re already thinking about support later this year, I’m always happy to exchange thoughts.

If you’re curious how I support organizations and leaders in their own transformation journeys, you can find more about my work here: Linelia’s services.

And of course, feel free to reach out via my contact page or connect with me directly on LinkedIn.

The post That window of the year every consultant knows appeared first on Linelia.io.

Now that the new year has started, I’ve found myself thinking about 2026 in a slightly different way.

Not in the sense of detailed plans or neatly defined milestones.

More in terms of how I want to move forward, what I want to protect, and what I want to stay open to.

Somewhere along the way, one thought became pretty clear to me:

I don’t plan 2026 with rigid resolutions.

I plan it with boundaries and direction.

Not less ambition.
Not less drive.
Just more intention.

That’s not because I’ve stopped caring about progress.

Quite the opposite. The last year reminded me how quickly plans can change and how valuable flexibility really is.

This way of thinking also builds directly on reflections I shared toward the end of last year:

about visibility, proactivity, and staying grounded while moving forward.

Why I’m skipping classic resolutions this time…

…mostly because 2025 didn’t follow a clean script at all.

Things ended and started faster than expected.

Some decisions were well prepared, others emerged through conversations and timing.

Learning often happened while already moving.

What I’ve taken from that experience is not that planning is useless but that…

…overplanning can easily create pressure without adding clarity.

Rigid resolutions assume a stable environment.
Founder life (and honestly, most modern work) rarely offers that.

So instead of fixing outcomes too early, I’m focusing more on setting direction and defining boundaries..

What I mean by boundaries and direction

Boundaries help me decide what not to optimize for.

Direction helps me decide where to invest energy when options appear.

Together, they create a framework that’s flexible enough to adapt without feeling random.

For me, this approach feels calmer, more realistic, and more sustainable than a long list of must-haves for the year ahead.

Five principles I’m carrying into 2026

I do have goals for 2026.

I just try to define them as guiding principles rather than fixed targets. Here’s what that looks like for me right now:

1. Adding a product alongside consulting

I want to explore how my consulting work could be complemented by a more reusable, productized offering.

The exact shape isn’t fixed yet, but the intention is clear: leverage, scalability, and impact beyond one-to-one projects.

2. Keeping Linelia healthy and growing deliberately

Growth matters. But not at any cost.

My focus is on sustainability, fit, trust, and energy, letting growth follow quality work instead of chasing volume.

3. Staying visible without losing authenticity

Writing, sharing, and connecting will remain part of my rhythm.

Not as constant self-promotion, but as a way to reflect, exchange perspectives, and stay present.

4. Staying open to opportunities that emerge from my network

Some of the most interesting ideas don’t come from plans, but from conversations.

I want to stay curious and receptive when new opportunities or business ideas surface without forcing anything.

5. Keeping space for life outside work

Sports, hobbies, family, recovery.

Not as a reward after productivity, but as part of what makes good work possible in the first place.

None of these are rigid promises.

They’re more like a compass.

And as you might already know me…of course the will have KPIs at the one or other point.

Micro-Practice:
Instead of writing a long list of resolutions, try this…

Write down:
Three directions you want to lean into as well as three boundaries you don’t want to cross in 2026

If a decision supports both, it’s probably a good one.

Direction over control (with momentum)

Planning 2026 this way doesn’t mean lowering ambition. Quite the opposite.

For me, 2026 will also be a year of focus, momentum, and pushing hard, just with clearer boundaries and intention than in 2025.

What I like about this approach is that it leaves room.

• Room to adjust.
• Room to say no.
• Room to notice when something feels off or surprisingly right.
• Direction over control.
• Momentum without burnout.

That’s how I want to move through 2026.

I’m curious:

Are you entering 2026 with fixed goals or with boundaries and direction?

And as always, conversations come first. If you’re curious how I support organizations and leaders in their own transformation journeys, you can find more about my work here: Linelia’s services.

And of course, I’m always happy to stay in touch this year.

If you’d like to exchange ideas, reflect together, or explore potential collaboration, feel free to reach out via my contact page or connect with me directly on LinkedIn.

The post My 2026: Boundaries, Direction, Momentum appeared first on Linelia.io.

As I reflect on the 2025 year in review, one word comes to mind: contrast.

As usual, this year wasn’t linear.
It didn’t unfold step by step.

It felt more like a roller coaster.

Moments of clarity followed by uncertainty.
Endings overlapping with beginnings.
Learning happening mostly while moving.

It wasn’t chaotic.
But it also wasn’t smooth.

And in hindsight, that’s probably what made it such a formative year.

Closing one chapter

One of the defining moments of 2025 was bringing VRdirect to an end.

Even though it was the right decision, it carried more emotional weight than I had expected. Ending something you’ve helped build isn’t just a strategic step. It’s a process of letting go, of responsibility, identity, routines, and momentum.

What surprised me most wasn’t the operational side.

It was the finality.

Once a chapter really closes, it does so quietly. And that silence takes some getting used to.

That alone would have been enough for one year.

Starting another faster than planned

Almost simultaneously, Linelia started to take shape.

Not as a carefully staged next step, but because opportunities appeared and I decided to move. What was initially meant to develop gradually turned into a running business much faster than anticipated.

There was no long pause between chapters.

No comfortable in-between phase.

No time to fully reflect before acting.

Instead, I found myself closing one door while already stepping through the next.

Looking back, this overlap shaped much of how 2025 felt: intense, dynamic, and sometimes uncomfortable – but also very real.

A year without a playbook

What stood out to me in 2025 was how often I had to make decisions without a clear reference point.

Not because I was careless or unprepared, but because there simply was no proven path to follow. Endings and beginnings overlapped. Some questions didn’t have immediate answers. And timing wasn’t always something I could fully influence.

What surprised me most wasn’t the uncertainty itself, but how quickly it became normal.

Over time, I learned to distinguish between not knowing yet and not knowing at all. And that difference matters. The first creates space for learning. The second rarely exists anyway.

At the same time, a few things helped more than I had expected.

Staying proactive, even when nothing felt urgent.

Keeping close contact with people I trust.

Allowing myself to rely on simple routines when weeks got intense.

And maybe most importantly: noticing that many of the things that matter to me didn’t change at all.

Curiosity. Honest collaboration. Depth over speed. The belief that clarity beats politics.

There was no perfect playbook for this year.

But learning while moving, adjusting along the way, and staying open to feedback turned out to be enough.

Full of gratitude

But this year wouldn’t have worked without people around me.

First and foremost, my wife and my family for patience, trust, and grounding me when thoughts and work started to overlap too much. Having that stability in the background made more of a difference than I probably say out loud.

Friends who listened, asked the right questions, or simply helped me switch off when needed. Special thanks to Sprittwoch.

My network buddies and former colleagues, who reached out, shared perspectives, opened doors, or just checked in without any agenda. Those small moments of connection mattered more than they might have realized.

And everyone I had the chance to work with throughout the year for openness, trust, and honest collaboration.

What I’m carrying into 2026

I’m not closing 2025 with big resolutions or ambitious plans written in stone. But as you might know by now, a bit of process and structure still helps me a lot:

So, I’m carrying a few principles with me into the next year:

• Staying proactive without becoming hectic.
• Keeping routines light but consistent.
• Investing in relationships before I need them.
• Being visible without losing authenticity.
• Accepting uncertainty as part of the process.
• Taking time off for me to do sports and enjoy hobbies.

2025 was intense, sometimes uncomfortable, but deeply formative.

A year of letting go, starting over, and slowly growing into founder life. Not as an idea, but as something lived day by day.

With that, this year can stand as it is.

I’m grateful for what was, curious about what’s next, and ready to open the next chapter in 2026.

And of course, I’d love to stay in touch in 2026.

If you’d like to exchange ideas, reflect together, or explore potential collaboration, feel free to reach out via my contact page or connect with me on LinkedIn.

Until then, have a lovely holiday season and a great start to the new year.

The post 2025 in review: A roller coaster of endings, new starts and learning appeared first on Linelia.io.

I recently came across this image I took of a fossil at the Google campus years ago and thought it’s the perfect match for this post.

A quiet reminder that in fast-moving environments – whether tech, corporate, or founder life – staying proactive as a founder isn’t just helpful, it’s what keeps you evolving.

And even though I’ve always considered myself someone who thinks ahead, I recently had another moment that reminded me how different proactivity becomes once you run your own business.

Being proactive isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s a core skill.

You’re constantly operating in two timelines:
The one you’re working in today, and the one you need to shape for tomorrow.

Nothing dramatic happened.
Nothing stressful.
Just a realization that this skill – thinking ahead, preparing options, keeping momentum – matters more than ever.

A familiar skill … used in a new way

I was lucky to learn proactive thinking early in my career, surrounded by strong managers and mentors, especially during my time at dentsu, L’Oréal and later EnBW.

They taught me to:

• Anticipate instead of react
• Look beyond the quarter
• Prepare before it becomes urgent
• Create momentum intentionally

Those lessons shaped how I work to this day.

But as a founder, this skill shifts.
It stops being an advantage and becomes something else:

Proactivity becomes stability.
Proactivity becomes strategy.
Proactivity becomes calm.

It’s not about being busy, it’s about staying ready.

Why proactivity matters so much in founder life

1. Opportunities grow slowly, then suddenly

A good conversation today might turn into something months later. Sometimes earlier, sometimes later, but rarely instantly.

2. Trust builds before the project does

Especially in consulting and interim roles. People work with people they trust, not just CVs.

3. Momentum replaces structure

You don’t inherit processes or planning cycles. You create your own rhythm and protecting that rhythm matters.

4. Proactivity reduces uncertainty

The more you explore early, the less you stress later.

None of this feels urgent.
All of it feels grounding.

What tends to surprise people in large organizations…

When I meet friends and former colleagues from corporate environments, they often expect founder life to be more “free-flowing”, “spontaneous” but most of all “super uncertain”

But what surprises them most is:

• Uncertainty is normal, not a signal something’s wrong
• You stay in conversation even when you’re fully committed
• Opportunities are relationship-driven, only partly process-driven
• Planning early creates calm, it’s not about fear
• You design your structure instead of inheriting one

The system is simply different, more fluid, more personal, and more dependent on trust and timing. That’s what “proactive as a founder” really means.

How I try to stay proactive (still evolving)

I’m still early in my founder journey, so my approach is simple and very human.

1. Staying connected with interim recruiters

Players like Hays, Amadeus Fire and others are important sparring partners. It helps to know each other well before there’s an opportunity.

2. Investing in relationships consistently

Reaching out to my network regularly, not because I need something, but because relationships matter long before you activate them.

3. Keeping my network warm throughout the year

A short message, a voice note, a spontaneous coffee.

4. Staying visible in a way that feels authentic

Through writing, reflection, and sharing perspectives, not promotion.

Proactivity doesn’t need to feel loud or demanding.
It can feel light.

Micro-Practices that make proactivity feel easy

Here are a few things that help me keep momentum without turning it into a task list:

10 minutes each week to review my conversations

Who did I talk to?
Whom would I like to reconnect with?

Capture potential opportunities instantly

A name mentioned in a meeting.
A conversation that sparked something.
Write it down, future you will thank you.

One intentional conversation per week

Not sales.
Just connection.

A monthly self-check on workload, energy, and direction

It helps me understand my own cycles.
Small habits create clarity.
And clarity creates calm.

Proactivity creates space

For me, being proactive as a founder is not about being busy and not about predicting the future.

It’s about creating space…

… space to focus on work,

… space to build relationships,

… space to enjoy the present without worrying about the next step.

Even though I’m still early in my founder journey, I see how powerful this mindset is. And how much of it comes from the things I learned long before starting my own business.

And if your 2026 planning is already starting (proactivity club, welcome!)… I’m always happy to talk.

More about my work: Linelia’s services

For anything else, just drop me a note via my contact page or connect with me on  LinkedIn. Always up for a chat.

The post Proactive or extinct? A founder’s perspective appeared first on Linelia.io.

The freedom of running your own business often sounds limitless but for me, it works best with a clear framework. Incorporating effective founder routines for productivity can help establish that framework.

Client work gives my week a natural rhythm. Around it, I’ve built my own routines for productivity. Small habits that keep me focused, connected, and calm in the middle of busy weeks.

They’re not perfect or sophisticated, but they’ve proven to work for me in the last months.

My routines for productivity create freedom

When you work with multiple clients, expectations and deliverables already define part of the pace. The challenge is to build around that: routines for productivity that give your days shape without overloading them.

It’s not about escaping structure it’s about creating your own as a founder.

For me, these habits are less about discipline and more about mental clarity. The ability to focus on what matters most without constantly switching contexts.

Weekly network cadence: light, consistent, real

I’ve learned and love that it’s easier to stay in touch regularly than to rebuild connections only when you need something.

Networks and friendships don’t maintain themselves – consistency does.

Every week, I reach out to a few people, not for business, but simply to stay in touch.

A short message, a voice note, or a “how are things?” often keeps the door open for real conversations later.

Mini-Hack: Keep a small “Top 40” list in your (Apple) notes or calendar or however you organize yourself.

Lunches, dinners & events with intent

I try to schedule one or two lunches or dinners each week, always with a clear intention: sparring, feedback, or exploring collaboration.

On top I’m trying to host regular small “events” like meeting at Oktoberfest (a must-have to stay connected in Munich) or X-mas dinners.

It’s not about collecting business cards, it’s about meaningful conversations with people who share curiosity and drive.

Mini-Hack: Instead of “let’s catch up sometime,” open your calendar and directly schedule a meeting. Future you will thank you.

Monthly anchor: Showing up in Munich

Even though I work remotely most of the time, I make it a point to be onsite in Munich at least once a month.

Many of my professional (and personal) connections are based there, and meeting people in person adds a layer of trust you simply can’t replicate online.

When I plan those days, I try to group 2–3 meetings with partners, prospects, or peers for sparring sessions into a single trip.

It’s an efficient way to keep relationships warm without forcing “networking.”

Content rhythm: Blog + LinkedIn without the burnout

Writing has become a fixed part of my rhythm at Linelia. It helps me reflect, share, and stay visible without turning content into pressure.

My cycle looks like this:

• Fri–Sun: ideation, draft, edit.
• Tue or Thu: publish on the Linelia blog and / or LinkedIn.

That cadence keeps things steady and gives each piece enough space to mature. Some weekends it’s a long read; others it’s a quick thought.

Over time, these routines for productivity have become second nature. Helping me stay consistent even when projects overlap or schedules shift.

Mini-Hack: Keep a running “ideas” list from client talks and reflections. Most posts start as one short note in (Apple) Notes.

Ongoing upskilling: Learning as part of the job

Running my own business means constantly switching between doing and learning.

Each week, I focus on one small “learning sprint”, about 30 to 45 minutes dedicated to improving one area.

Sometimes it’s sales or marketing, other times admin, finance, or exploring a new AI or automation tool. I use platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Google Skillshop, and OpenAI Academy for quick, focused learning. I also follow selected tech and business media such as WIRED, TechCrunch, The Verge, Harvard Business Review, and The Information to stay curious and inspired.

It’s a light commitment that compounds over time and keeps curiosity alive.

Mini-Hack: Book one recurring learning slot in your calendar. Treat it like a client meeting, because it’s one with your future self.

Routines for productivity build calm for me

The longer I run Linelia, the clearer it becomes that fun and hopefully success as a founder isn’t about endless hustle. It’s about rhythm and the right routines for productivity that create calm and focus.

These routines help me deliver consistent quality, and leave space for creativity and connection.

If one of these ideas resonates, try it next week and see what difference it makes.

If you’re curious how I support organizations and founders in their own transformation journeys, you can find more about my work here: Linelia’s services

And of course, I’m always happy to hear from you. If you’d like to exchange ideas or explore how we might work together, feel free to reach out via my contact page or directly connect via LinkedIn.

The post Routines that keep me sane and productive appeared first on Linelia.io.

I want to take you with me on my journey and this time, it’s about the very first 150 days of running my own business. Not a highlight reel, but a realistic look at what worked, what didn’t, and what I’d do differently.

After leaving VRdirect, I couldn’t imagine going back into corporate life, at least not for now. I was ready to keep more autonomy, but I didn’t have a multi-year plan or a polished business concept sitting in a drawer. It just happened, faster than expected.

When I founded Linelia in late 2023, the original idea was simple: use it as an investment vehicle to hold my shares in VRdirect. That’s why I chose a “UG – Unternehmergesellschaft (haftungsbeschränkt)“: minimal setup, low capital, quick execution.

But then in early summer 2025 opportunities came up sooner than I thought. Within weeks, projects appeared, and suddenly Linelia wasn’t just an investment entity, it became my consultancy.

That’s how it started: a mix of choice, timing, and the clear realization that I wasn’t done building things, just doing it differently.

From idea to reality: The administrative foundation

The first step in June 2025 was turning Linelia from an idea into an operational company. Setting up a UG was fast and lean, but looking back, I’d probably go with a GmbH today.

Not because the UG didn’t work, it’s perfectly fine for small businesses, but in Germany, GmbH simply carries more weight. It signals maturity and stability, especially in B2B contexts. Perception matters here, and “GmbH” on an invoice still creates a slightly different first impression.

But in general I focused early on getting the fundamentals right:

• Finding a reliable tax advisor and setting up digital tax tools for seamless coordination.
• Opening a business bank account and creating clear routines for invoices and cash flow tracking.
• Keeping admin minimal but consistent from day one.

Mini-Hack: Don’t aim for a perfect structure, aim for a functional one that you can scale later.

Finding clients: Start with trust, then build reach

Some of my first clients came from my existing network, people who already knew me and trusted my work. It seems like that’s often how it starts, and it’s the easiest bridge from corporate to self-employed life.

But there’s another channel I highly recommend, especially for interim and consulting roles:

Recruitment agencies specializing in executive and project-based placements like Hays, Amadeus Fire, Robert Half, or Michael Page. They know the market and can help you bridge the gap while you build your own pipeline.

At the same time, I created profiles on platforms such as interim-x.com, bluesteps.com, and experteer.com.

You don’t have to be everywhere, but you should be findable.

Mini-Hack: Once a month, update your online profiles — a fresh picture, new keywords, or project details. Consistency compounds over time.

Building the setup: The tools that keep everything running

Structure brings calm and for me, that means a simple but solid initial digital setup. I rely on tools that integrate smoothly and reduce friction for now.

Core Setup

I always was and still am fully in the Apple hardware ecosystem. MacBook, iPhone, iPad, AirPods, synced across everything.

On the software side, Microsoft 365 is my backbone: Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, and Excel. It’s reliable and flexible, and I can run almost everything through it.

Automation & AI

To make daily operations lighter, I use Microsoft Power Automate and n8n.io to sync calendars and automate recurring tasks.

Apple Shortcuts help with quick actions like logging meetings or sending reminders.

And of course, ChatGPT and Microsoft Co-Pilot help speed up everything from drafting proposals to planning schedules.

Operations & Visibility

I use Microsoft Bookings (instead of Calendly) to let clients and prospects book meetings directly in my calendar. Because it’s already included in my Microsoft subscription.

DATEV connects me directly with my tax advisor, and Excel remains my universal tool for calculations and financial planning.

My website runs on WordPress with Kubio, which lets me edit and expand it easily without agency support in this early phase.

And of course, LinkedIn is my daily companion to stay visible, share updates, and connect with people.

Mini-Hack: Only automate what you’ve done manually at least three times. It’s easy to overcomplicate too early.

Financial foundations: Planning without overengineering

One of the most important lessons: cash flow visibility is everything.

I created a simple Excel sheet that tracks revenue, expenses, and liquidity. One view that shows how much money is coming in and how much needs to stay in the bank. You don’t need a 50-tab business plan. One tab is enough if you keep it updated.

And here’s something I’d emphasize to anyone starting a business, especially in Germany:

Always keep enough money aside for taxes.

They’ll come with a time delay, sometimes a year or more after your first invoices, but they will come. Keep that buffer from day one.

Mini-Hack: Check your liquidity at least twice a month. It’s not about panic, it’s about clarity.

Systems Create Freedom

People often imagine founders as free spirits. No bosses, no rules…but

…the reality is: systems create freedom.

I structure my days clearly:

1. Fixed time blocks for client work, outreach, and administration,
2. Specific windows for communication,
3. And small automations that reduce mental load.

These simple routines make space for creativity and flexibility without losing control.

Small Emotional Lessons Along the Way

Even though this post focuses on the practical side, there’s always an emotional layer.

Around day 100, I realized: it’s working.

A few projects were ongoing, client feedback was strong, and Linelia felt less like an experiment and more like a business.

Momentum doesn’t shout, it seems to be building quietly. And that’s when I realized: the foundation is there.

Build foundations that let you focus on the work

The first 150 days weren’t about big visions or scaling plans, they were about structure and getting work done. Setting up a company, securing clients, building systems, and learning what works.

If you build the basics right, you free your mind for the real work. Creating value, solving problems, and enjoying what you do.

If you’re curious how I support organizations and founders in their own transformation journeys, you can find more about my work here: Linelia’s services

And of course, I’m always happy to hear from you. If you’d like to exchange ideas or explore how we might work together, feel free to reach out via my contact page or directly connect via LinkedIn.

The post The first 150 days: How I built the foundation for my own company appeared first on Linelia.io.

Leaving corporate life behind and starting your own company is a transition people often describe as a “jump off a cliff.” I wouldn’t go that far. For me, it was less dramatic, more of a shift in perspective than a free fall. But one thing is certain: stepping into Founder Mode changes a lot.

When you’ve spent years in executive roles, you get used to clear responsibilities, large teams, buffers, and budgets that provide stability.

Suddenly, as a founder, you’re the product, the sales team, the finance department, and the back office, all rolled into one.
But It’s not about panic or chaos. It’s about embracing ownership in its purest form.

And here’s the twist: mindset alone won’t get you through. What really makes the difference is your network: the people you trust, and the ones who trust you.

A smooth start, but a real difference

In my case, founding wasn’t a shock. I had what I’d call a “warm start” into Founder Mode at VRdirect, where I served as Co-CEO. There, I already carried founder-like responsibilities: shaping strategy, driving sales & marketing, handling investor expectations. It was intense, but it already had a strong foundation when I joined.

When I founded Linelia, my very own consultancy, it was different. Suddenly, it wasn’t about us – it was about me. No larger entity, no safety net, no brand to hide behind. If I want clients, if I want results, it all comes down to my decisions and my ability to execute.

I think this is the point where many who leave corporate life feel like they’ve hit a wall. Because even if you’re used to leadership, Founder Mode is a different kind of ownership: there’s nowhere to hide and at first nearly no task to delegate.

Four mindset shifts that matter most

So what does it take to make this shift? I’ve boiled it down to four mindset changes that proved essential for me:

1. From Planning to Testing
   In corporate life, I loved detailed plans, scenarios, and decks. As a founder, plans are nice but they don’t win clients. Testing, iterating, and delivering quickly are what moves the needle.
2. From Perfection to Pragmatism
   I used to, or better said, was forced to spend weeks refining strategies, polishing campaigns, and aligning stakeholders. As a founder, “good enough” often beats “perfect.” If you don’t move, someone else will.
3. From Security to Resilience
   In corporate, you can fail and still get your paycheck. As a founder, every setback feels personal until you learn to reset fast. Resilience isn’t a motivational poster, it’s a survival skill.
4. From Hierarchy to Speed with Balance
   In Founder Mode, there’s no more waiting for approvals or hiding behind slow committees. You’re expected to move fast because if you don’t, opportunities vanish.
   But here’s the nuance: speed doesn’t mean being actionistic. Sometimes the real strength is saying: not now, let’s do it properly.

Mini-Hack: Write down your three non-negotiables. When speed and pressure tempt you to cut corners, those values keep you grounded.

Why network is your real currency

Let’s be honest: my first clients at Linelia didn’t come from marketing campaigns or fancy websites. They came from people I’d worked with, people who trusted me, people I had built honest connections with over years.

Your network becomes your most valuable asset. Skills and experience are important, but trust is what opens doors.

Network had always been important for me, but it became absolutely essential at the same time as one of the craziest shifts in my career:

I realized I had become the product.

At L’ORÈAL, EnBW, or even VRdirect, the “sale” was always about a product, a service, or a company brand. Now, as a consultant and interim manager, the client isn’t buying “something” – they are buying me.

At first, that felt deeply personal. Every unsuccessful negotiation felt like a rejection of who I was, not just what I offered. It took me a while to separate the two. My key learning: always keep it professional.

A client’s decision is about fit, timing, or needs, not about your worth as a person.

Once I internalized that, talking about my work and “selling myself” became far more natural.

And yes, it can feel really odd to talk about yourself. But as long as you stay authentic and don’t push too hard, it’s not arrogance, it’s connection.

Building and using a network authentically

The good news: building and using your network doesn’t need to feel manipulative or transactional. In fact, the opposite is true. Here’s my checklist for building an authentic network – ideally before becoming a founder:

• Invest before you need. Relationships grow over years, not weeks.
• Be transparent. Share openly where you stand and what you’re looking for.
• Talk about your work. Don’t hide, visibility is part of the game. Just keep it authentic and don’t be too pushy.
• Ask clearly. People like to help, but they need to know how.
• Give back. A network only works if value flows both ways.

Mini-Hack: Write down 10 people you could call tomorrow for sparring, feedback, or introductions. That small circle can shape your first 12 months as a founder more than any business plan.

Founder Mode is not a solo game

At the end of the day, Founder Mode is not about being the lone hero. It’s a mix of courage, habits, and the people around you. And one final lesson:

Don’t be afraid to be bold, be yourself, and also say no.

Learning to push back helps you focus on what really matters, deliver higher quality, and keep your mind clear during tough times.

With the right mindset and an authentic network, founder life shifts from survival mode to building something sustainable, something that reflects you, not just a job title. Hopefully.

So, if you’d start tomorrow, who are the 5–10 people you’d call first? Because that circle, combined with your mindset, is what makes all the difference.

If you’re curious how I support organizations and founders in their own transformation journeys, you can find more about my work here: Linelia’s services

And of course, I’m always happy to hear from you. If you’d like to exchange ideas or explore how we might work together, feel free to reach out via my contact page.

The post Transition to Founder Mode: mindset & network as your real currency appeared first on Linelia.io.