In a world where entrepreneurial success is tied to how fast and quick a person can climb up the fame ladder, it is refreshing to reference stories like that of Steve Bartlett. He is a man who didn’t get to the top overnight, but pushed through difficult situations to be who everyone resonates with today.
The 31-year-old British entrepreneur, speaker, and investor has become a household name among forward-thinking creatives and business-minded young people, both among the millennials and the Gen Zs.
From dropping out of university to co-founding Social Chain, one of Europe’s most influential social media companies, to sitting as the youngest-ever investor on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, Steve’s journey inspires determination and grit. It is packed with lessons Gen Z and Millennials can learn from. Not because he did everything perfectly, but because he has built a legacy from grit, self-awareness, and an incredible level of intentionality.
Honestly? There’s a lot to learn from him, especially if you’re trying to figure out this whole life + purpose + “what am I even doing?” combo.
Here are five solid lessons from Steve’s journey you’ll want to hold on to:
1. Your background doesn’t disqualify you
Steve dropped out of uni. Grew up broke. No rich friends or family plug. But instead of seeing that as a disadvantage, he used it. That outsider energy? It worked. If you’ve ever felt like you’re starting from the bottom; that’s okay. That could just mean that your foundation is real.
2. Not everything has to go viral; Stick with creating value
We’re all guilty of chasing the algorithm, but Steve reminds us: value first, always. He built Social Chain by actually understanding people. If you’re building something, make sure it solves a real problem. Don’t chase Hype. Hype fades. Substance stays.
3. You don’t need to be loud to be a leader
Steve is known for being calm, quiet, observant, and still he commands a room. That’s a reminder that leadership isn’t always loud. You can lead with clarity, empathy, and presence. Soft power is still power. Own it.
4. Failing doesn’t make you a fraud
One thing we love about Steve? He talks about the Ls. The burnout. The self-doubt. The pivots. And he talks about them without shame. failure isn’t shameful, it’s human. And most times, it’s the best teacher.
5. If something’s missing, build it
Steve doesn’t follow trends, he fills gaps and solves problems. Whether it’s launching his podcast, investing in wellness brands, or showing up as that voice on social media, he creates from a place of honesty. If there’s something you wish existed, that’s probably your cue to build it.
Bottom line?
Steve Bartlett is proof that you don’t have to wait for someone to hand you the keys. You can start messy, start unsure, start with what you’ve got, just don’t wait too long to start at all.
