The Power of Taking a Break—And Why I’m Back
When I stepped away from my role as CEO of Rise, I wasn’t entirely sure what the next chapter would look like. What I did know, however, was that after years of intense focus on building a business, leading a team, and helping clients grow, I needed time to step back, reflect, and recharge.
Taking a long break from work is something many of us hesitate to do. We worry about losing momentum, missing opportunities, or falling behind. But what I’ve learned is that stepping away—even for an extended period—isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential.
During my time off, I traveled with my wife, Jenny, spent more quality time with my family, and finally gave myself the space to think deeply about what truly excites me. I read more, learned more, and—perhaps most importantly—allowed myself to step outside the day-to-day grind to see the bigger picture. The result? A fresh perspective, renewed energy, and a clear vision for what I wanted to do next.
Now, I’m thrilled to share what that "next" is: SoftSnow AI.
Through SoftSnow AI, my team and I will help companies assess their AI readiness, develop practical roadmaps, and execute AI-driven strategies that drive real business impact. I’m also incredibly excited to partner with Reid Valfer again as we launch our fourth business together. Reid and I have built a strong track record of turning ideas into successful ventures, and SoftSnow AI is our next big step in helping businesses embrace the power of AI.
If there’s one thing I’ve taken away from this journey, it’s that time off isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It allows us to reset, gain perspective, and come back stronger. So if you’ve ever thought about taking that break—whether for a few weeks or a couple of months—my advice is simple: do it.
I’m excited to be back, and I look forward to sharing more insights, lessons, and strategies on how AI is reshaping the future. Let’s get to work.
Larry Fisher
Co-Founder & CEO, SoftSnow AI