The Edge for August 2026
We asked N.J. Chamber of Commerce members to name a business lesson they wished they learned sooner in their careers. Here is what they said.
Some decisions will always be out of your hands
Time spent worrying about things beyond your control is time you never get back. I’ve come to realize that the best use of energy is focusing on what you can influence and doing your very best every day. Some decisions will always be out of your hands and taking them personally is discouraging. Staying grounded in your values, your effort, and the impact you make is a much healthier and more rewarding path.
— Amy Mansue, CEO, Inspira Health
The power of simply asking ‘Why’
One business lesson I wish I had learned sooner is the power of simply asking, “Why?” That question gets to the core of nearly everything we do and helps us become more effective and efficient. It forces us to focus on outcomes, clarify goals, make better decisions and connect our activities to a larger purpose rather than simply completing tasks. Asking “Why are we doing this?” helps organize priorities, reduce distractions, stay on course and measure progress. It’s a simple question, but one that can have a profound impact on how we work and the results we achieve.
— Mary Rizzuti, Partner, EisnerAmper Advisory Group
Invest in people – and see where it leads
I wish I had learned sooner that relationships are a long-term investment. Stay connected to people, help them along the way and don’t worry about what’s immediately in it for you. Some of the most rewarding opportunities in my career have grown from relationships that were built years earlier. The same is true of mentoring – sometimes a small gesture or bit of advice can make a real difference. Invest in people, and you’ll be surprised where those relationships can lead.
— Jon Hirschfeld, Partner, PwC
Letting go doesn’t mean you’re stepping back
For years, I thought being responsible meant being involved in and knowing everything about the business. Over time, I’ve learned that real leadership is knowing what only you can do, surrounding yourself with people smarter than you, trusting others to own the rest, and giving them room to succeed. Letting go isn’t stepping back. It’s creating space for your team to grow and for you to focus on what matters most.
— Debra Rizzi, President & Partner, Rizco
Slow down and listen to others
The lesson I wish I had learned sooner is the importance of active listening. Early in my career, I was focused on quickly finding the right answer. Over time, I learned that better decisions often come from slowing down, asking questions, and truly hearing what others have to say. Active listening strengthens teams; it builds trust, nurtures relationships, and uncovers ideas and concerns that might otherwise go unnoticed. It has become one of the most valuable leadership skills I’ve developed.
— Mike Zwick, Senior Vice President for Research, Rutgers University
You may not always win, but hard work will bring rewards
Time moves quickly. Our days can be long, demanding, and often deeply rewarding. Yet the years seem to slip by effortlessly. I wish I learned earlier in my career to enjoy each of the moments and opportunities that came my way and to understand that there will be moments of disappointment that will quickly give way to better days. You may not always be on the winning side, but over time, hard work will bring incredible rewards.
— Christine Amalfe, Partner, FBT Gibbons
