10 Inspiring Lessons from Billy’s Journey
Enkhbileg Tserenbat
Founder, Investor Billy Sushi
Congratulations to the Entrepreneur of the Year, Enkhbileg “Billy” Tserenbat!
As many of you are going through year-end reviews at work, we decided to do our own to highlight a few inspiring Mongolians, who have given us much inspiration. 🌟 Enkhbileg “Billy” Tserenbat is a founder, investor, and restaurateur. He studied geology in San Francisco and found himself as a sushi chef. After moving to Minneapolis, he started Sushi Fix, a first of a kind edo style sushi on a food truck. Since then, Billy opened and invested in multiple restaurants including Billy Sushi which has leveraged the power of social media to grow their brand and attract loyal customers including many celebrities. Thank you Billy for sharing his remarkable journey in an interview filled with wisdom and heartfelt insights.
Here are ten key lessons from Billy’s story that you can apply to your own path:
1. Redefine Success on Your Own Terms
Billy’s father envisioned a traditional “white-collar” career for him and encouraged him to study geology, but Billy found his happiness and success as a sushi chef and entrepreneur. While initially seen as unconventional, his dedication and passion proved to be his true calling.
Takeaway: Success isn’t about meeting others’ expectations. Define your own goals and pursue what truly makes you happy, even if it deviates from the norm.
2. Embrace Unexpected Opportunities
Billy didn’t initially choose to be a sushi chef. A financial setback pushed him into the culinary world when a classmate’s father offered him a chance to work at a sushi restaurant. What seemed like an accident became a life-changing opportunity.
Takeaway: Life’s unexpected turns can lead to success. Be open to exploring paths you didn’t plan for and give your all to new opportunities.
3. Prioritize Learning Over Immediate Gains
When Billy worked at a small sushi bar, he earned minimal pay but maximized his learning. He took on multiple roles, learning the ins and outs of the business, which prepared him for future success.
Takeaway: Invest in gaining experience and skills early on, even if it means sacrificing immediate rewards. The knowledge you acquire will pay off in the long run.
4. Be Adaptable and Resilient
Billy’s decision to start Billy Sushi during the challenges of COVID-19 showcased his ability to adapt. While many restaurants struggled, he leaned into his unique vision and created a lively, fun dining experience that drew customers from across the country.
Takeaway: Adaptability is a key trait for overcoming adversity. Stay flexible and focus on what you can control, even during uncertain times.
5. Give Back to Your Community
Billy’s success is deeply tied to his connection with others, from his Mongolian roots to his local Minneapolis community. He aims to inspire other Mongolians to achieve great things in the U.S., emphasizing mentorship and mutual support.
Takeaway: Success is more meaningful when shared. Use your journey to uplift and inspire those around you, fostering a sense of belonging and growth within your community.
6. Find the Value in Hard Times
Billy turned obstacles, such as losing a job or navigating life in a new country, into opportunities for growth and innovation. For example, his sushi food truck was born out of a period of uncertainty.
Takeaway: Challenges are inevitable, but they can also be the foundation for your greatest achievements. Approach hardships with a mindset of resilience and creativity.
7. Consistency Builds Trust
Billy emphasizes that in the restaurant business—and in life—consistency is key. A customer’s experience should be reliable, whether it’s their first or tenth visit. He learned this firsthand while managing and operating a sushi bar.
Takeaway: Whether it’s in your work ethic, relationships, or personal growth, staying consistent helps you build trust, credibility, and a solid reputation.
8. Build a Supportive Community
Billy’s ventures, from a sushi food truck to a successful restaurant, were built with the help of mentors, friends, and the local community. He emphasized the importance of having people to brainstorm ideas with and lean on during tough times.
Takeaway: Surround yourself with a strong network of friends, mentors, and collaborators who can offer support and guidance. Success is rarely a solo journey.
9. Stay True to Yourself
Billy’s authenticity, both in his work and on social media, played a significant role in his success. During the challenging times of COVID-19 and the George Floyd crisis, he used social media to bring positivity and connect with others, staying true to his personality and mission.
Takeaway: Authenticity builds trust and connections. Be yourself and let your unique personality shine, whether in business or personal interactions.
10. Take Risks While You’re Young
Billy encourages young people to take calculated risks early in life. Before starting a family, he took bold steps to pursue his dreams, including launching the first sushi food truck in Minneapolis.
Takeaway: Your youth is the best time to experiment and take risks. The stakes are lower, and the potential for growth is higher. Use this period to discover your passion and push boundaries.