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Meet Connor LaRocque, an expert at helping young adults and entrepreneurs become leaders, overcome fears, and distinguish themselves in a competitive marketplace. Currently he is President of LA Roqk Enterprises, a multinational direct sales and consulting firm. The CEO of SocialRise Revenue Marketing Agency and he’s on the same speaker bureau as Kevin O’Leary from Shark Tank (the Big Idea Speakers).
Hey Connor! Can you tell us about your story?
Connor LaRocque: I grew up overweight and was an uneasy, goofy type of kid. I played Hockey until I was 16 and then gave it up to join Muay Thai. Joining Muay Thai I found my passion. I competed at the Canadian nationals and lost a title fight to receive a silver medal. A big part of my story was that I was a C student in high school and didn’t get into university my first attempt. When I finally got in, I published two books (one bestseller), made honor role, and spoke to thousands of students on overcoming fear and being able to strategize for the future while completing my degree. I originally was planning on going to Law School, but instead took a risk and became an entrepreneur thanks to my brother. He got me to sell door to door with his company in minus 30 degrees weather which then launched my career as an entrepreneur.
What differentiates you from everyone else in your field?
Connor LaRocque: At 25 years old, it’s rare to find someone whose accomplished what I have, but my true distinguishing factor is in my ability to build relationships and connect with people without looking for anything in return. I truly love helping people, it is the fire that fuels my heart and soul. I wouldn’t be doing this if it were just about the money. I walk into everyday wanting it to be hard; I want that workout to make me suffer, I want to go to work and completely exhaust myself because that’s how I am going to be better than I was yesterday.
Who are 3 people that inspire you?
- Tony Robbins
- Gary Vaynerchuck
- Mother Teresa
What is your inspiration for what you do?
Connor LaRocque: Saying that I love helping people is too cliche and generic. The reason I do it isn’t for myself but to reach the newly discovered element of Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs called “Self-Transcendence.” There is no better feeling than helping someone or giving something more of yourself. I always tell people if you’re having a bad day, go try and help someone in a worse situation than your own. Watch how you feel when you’re done.
What would you say to someone who came to you for advice about taking ‘the leap of faith’ into entrepreneurship?
Connor LaRocque: What gets you excited and fired up in the morning? That’s where you start! You can’t be doing it just to make money because your fulfillment will be hollow. It’s that passion that is going to allow you to push and grind when you don’t want to, not the money! You also need to have a strong clarity on “Why” you’re doing it because everyone is going to try and convince you otherwise so you need to be strong in your direction. When your Why is strong you will figure out the HOW.
What are your favorite quotes/sayings?
- “Mindset is everything. Trust me, I wrote the book on it!”
- “If you understood your thoughts, you would never think a negative thought again.”
- “Take your thoughts from your conscious mind, and bring them into the physical material world.”
- “My morning coffee is a 5 kilometer run, and a workout.”
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? What lesson did you learn from them?
Connor LaRocque: My brother. I wouldn’t be who I am today without having him as a part of my life. He taught me that it doesn’t matter what the situation is just go for it head first and figure the rest out. He pushed me to levels I never thought were imaginable, and has inspired me to want to be better.
What is the best way for someone to reach you if they are interested in working with you?
DM me on Facebook, Instagram (@laroqk) or LinkedIn. You can also email me at connor@connorlarocque.com
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