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Month: January 2023

Hungry for Pies?

Posted on by dan_adm

Hungry for pies

Today, I want to delve into the distinction between macro leadership and micromanaging and how they have played pivotal roles in shaping my business.

The other day, while on a trip to town with Jenna and the kids, I had a revelation. I realized that leadership shares similarities with baking a pie. Let me elaborate. On our way to Becca’s Chop Shop (big shoutout to Becca!) for my son’s haircut, we passed by the house of someone I knew. This individual falls into the “I” category in the Disc framework.

People in this category tend to wield influence but often lack drive, which translates to a lack of structure in their routines. While I found myself thinking, “I wish I could collaborate with this person; they’re great,” deep down, I knew it wouldn’t work out. This has been a recurring theme for me when considering working with individuals from the “I” category.

This led me to ponder: Why is this consistently the case? As I reflected, it dawned on me that “leadership is like baking a pie.” Jenna noticed my moment of clarity and asked what had caught my attention. With a serious expression, I replied, “Leadership is like baking a pie,” instantly piquing her interest.

Consider this: What distinguishes a successful business from a mediocre one is the effectiveness of its macro-level leadership.

I’ve transitioned into the role of a visionary leader, focused on the grand scheme of things. I thrive on conceptualizing large-scale ideas and initiating various initiatives. It truly ignites my passion and fuels my drive.

What I require are macro-leaders within my team who comprehend the overarching vision, although they might not share the same level of enthusiasm as I do. Recently, amidst festivities, many of us indulged in delectable pies, providing the perfect analogy to elucidate macro leadership. After all, who can resist the allure of a well-made pie?

Macro leaders at every tier are instrumental in shaping the levels of success that the business will ultimately achieve. “Behind every great pie lies the leader with the foresight to create it.” That slogan deserves a spot on a t-shirt!

Jokes aside, big-picture leaders are tasked with answering pivotal questions like, “What flavor of pie are we baking?” They chart the course for the business, determining the collective goal toward which the team will strive. Whether it’s an apple pie, a peach pie, or even the less conventional’mince-meat pie’ (a special nod to Grandma Greer’s mastery in that area!), these leaders provide the overarching direction.

During these critical moments, having a leader capable of making decisive, big-picture decisions is paramount. They provide the team with a unified vision and ensure that each unit is adequately equipped for success. Typically, such leaders exhibit high dominance traits, as per the DISC framework.

Moving down the chain of command, the subsequent leader assumes the role of crafting the crust, akin to laying the foundation. Just like every exceptional pie begins with a flawless crust, this leader determines the base necessary to propel the project forward. They transition us from mere vision to actionable plans, whether it involves crafting a Graham cracker crust or selecting dough.

It’s crucial to convey the vision clearly to this leader to prevent the scenario where they create an unsuitable base for the intended pie. Just imagine tucking into a pumpkin pie with a soggy dough base—quite the culinary faux pas, wouldn’t you agree? Think about it: Could you construct a skyscraper on the same foundation you’d use for a playhouse? Not! Thus, this macro-leader requires a comprehensive understanding of the entire vision to truly excel.

Moving along the chain of command, the second leader is tasked with overseeing the filling. Once again, effective communication of the big picture is paramount here. Their team begins to assemble the components of the pie, delving into the intricate details that contribute to its greatness, including considerations like serving methods.

Following suit, the subsequent leaders handle the toppings. Every element of the process must be meticulously attended to in order to produce a superior final product. Take, for instance, a pumpkin pie—arguably, its most beloved topping is whipped cream. Substituting it would undoubtedly alter the outcome significantly.

The fourth set of leaders takes charge of baking this delectable dessert. They too must grasp the overarching vision, as they’re responsible for setting the temperature, determining the baking duration, and planning how it will be served. After all, if they only see the crust and not the filling, how will they determine the required baking time?

Now, we’re nearing completion! The final set of leaders handles the pie’s serving, ensuring it’s sliced and distributed for enjoyment. Perhaps a dollop of ice cream on the side for those looking to go the extra mile!

Can you grasp the significance of communicating the big picture to each tier of macro-leaders to ensure the pie’s success? We progress from concept to execution, culminating in a sweet finish, all thanks to the guidance of macro-leaders.

Let’s apply this analogy to a real-world scenario. Take, for instance, www.DOTDocs.com (pardon the shameless plug), a platform simplifying compliance tracking for businesses regarding their drivers and DOT programs.

It’s a streamlined dashboard designed to swiftly usher businesses into compliance. When we claim to simplify compliance, we mean it earnestly. However, here’s the catch…

A salesperson, unaware that our prime clients operate trucking businesses, might inadvertently pitch our platform to doctors who have no use for it. They might find themselves enthused about compliance tracking—though, let’s face it, excitement about compliance is an Eclipse DOT specialty. We’re truly passionate about it, and fortunately for you, that’s a good thing!

Nevertheless…

There exists a significant misalignment between the service the salesperson sold to the doctor and its intended audience. To revisit the pie analogy, if the macro-leader tasked with baking believes they’re making cheesecake, setting the oven to 325 degrees for 45 minutes, but it’s meant to be an apple pie, the outcome will not be great. It might be edible, or perhaps not even that, but one thing’s for sure—it won’t be great!

This underscores the critical importance of communication across all levels. One team’s oversight could jeopardize the entire operation. Unfortunately, many overlook this fundamental point. Leadership isn’t just about the big-picture individuals like me running the show; it’s about ensuring success for every team member.

In my view, you don’t need a leadership title to act as a leader. Returning to the DISC framework and the anecdote about passing by a friend’s house—I promise I wasn’t merely rambling. Well, perhaps just a tad! (laughs)

Individuals with high “I” traits require macro-leaders to guide them because, while they may lack organizational prowess, they excel in interpersonal skills. That’s what sets them on the path to success.

On the flip side, individuals high in dominance traits tend to flit from one shiny object to the next, often hindering their path to success. To overcome this, they require the guidance of exceptional macro-leaders who can steer them towards achieving larger goals.

It’s essential to have macro-leaders who bring a diverse range of strengths to the team, thereby fostering balance. If a big-picture leader is absent from your team, it’s imperative to seek one out.

Similarly, if you lack macro-leaders to support your ambitious objectives, take proactive steps to find them. Consider seeking mentorship to develop the leadership skills necessary to guide your team effectively.

Ultimately, effective leadership isn’t about micromanaging, which is often met with disdain. Instead, it’s about embodying the qualities of a macro-leader who can lead the team towards the overarching vision.

Discover our CDL & DOT Compliance blog for an exclusive trial at DOTDocs.com. Also, claim your FREE micro audit at THE ECLIPSE DOT MICRO AUDIT. Ready for smoother operations?

I wish someone had told me this before I started a business

Posted on by dan_adm

I wish someone had told me this before I started a business

A little over a year ago, I made the bold decision to leave my well-paying job with its enticing perks to embark on a new venture assisting companies with their DOT and safety requirements. At the outset, we had just one client and hopeful prospects for a few more. Looking back, we couldn’t help but wonder, “What were we thinking?”

Yet, here we are, having successfully navigated our inaugural year, eager to impart some of the invaluable lessons we’ve gathered along the way.

Perhaps the most challenging lesson learned was that success isn’t merely about acquiring any and every client but rather about attracting the right ones. Not every company in our industry aligns with our vision. Consider this: would you rather have two clients, one of whom constantly complains, doesn’t pay promptly, and monopolizes your time, or a select few who are a joy to work with and compensate fairly for your efforts?

To ensure we’re engaging with the right clientele, we’ve adopted the practice of conducting thorough consultations—disguised as complimentary sessions—with potential clients. This allows us to gauge mutual compatibility before committing to a partnership.

Another crucial insight we’ve gleaned is the importance of scheduling time for what truly matters. Whether it’s prioritizing family moments, personal wellness, or essential tasks, integrating these commitments into our calendars ensures they receive the attention they deserve. My calendar has become indispensable, serving as a constant reminder of what requires my focus and dedication.

Furthermore, we’ve learned not to force client acquisitions. Instead of tirelessly pursuing new leads, we’ve discovered that clients tend to gravitate toward us at the right moment. Overzealous efforts to secure new business often yielded minimal returns and detracted from serving existing clients effectively.

I’ve wasted countless hours fretting over the uncertainties of potential client engagements, only to realize that such anxieties served no purpose. This unnecessary preoccupation detracted from nurturing existing relationships and likely even deterred potential clients.

Reflecting on past experiences, I recall instances where follow-ups went unanswered, leaving me questioning my approach and pricing. However, dwelling on these uncertainties proved futile, serving only to hinder progress.

In conclusion, our journey has underscored the importance of attracting the right clients, managing time effectively, and trusting in the natural flow of business development. These principles have not only propelled our growth but also fostered a more fulfilling and sustainable business model.

Is something amiss? Well, perhaps occasionally I’ve erred, but often, it simply required patience for potential customers to make a decision.

Our fourth suggestion revolves around giving abundantly without expecting immediate returns. We’ve organized free or low-cost training sessions to establish our presence and credibility in the community. Once our reputation was solidified, word-of-mouth referrals surged. People would contact us, mentioning they were referred by someone who praised our expertise in DOT matters, seeking answers to their questions. We faced a choice: bill them for our time or provide comprehensive assistance free of charge. Consistently, we opted for the latter. While some criticized our generosity, the vast majority of those we assisted returned to sign annual contracts, resulting in a revenue increase of over tenfold compared to charging for individual consultations. Furthermore, our clients became advocates, spreading our name to others seeking assistance.

Our final advice underscores the importance of offering compelling reasons for potential clients to choose your services. While our business helps with federal regulations, which clients could theoretically obtain online for free, we save them invaluable time and effort. By managing their DOT responsibilities, we grant them the freedom to focus on core aspects of their operations, essentially selling them time, a precious commodity in today’s fast-paced world. Our clients know they can rely on us for prompt, trustworthy assistance whenever they need it.

In environments where finding mentors or peers is challenging, we’ve invested in self-improvement resources. Initially, this involved attending training sessions and live events, but with the onset of COVID-19, we transitioned to virtual platforms. Despite the limitations posed by our rural location, we’ve surrounded ourselves with knowledge by engaging with books, podcasts, and social media live streams and participating in leadership communities, ensuring continuous growth, and learning.

I understand that virtual engagement isn’t quite the same as face-to-face interaction, but surprisingly, it proved effective. It provided me with the opportunity to challenge myself and elevate my skills with minimal effort.

There’s a multitude of insights we could delve into…

These are merely a handful of the pivotal elements that significantly contributed to our success.

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘You Have To Be Willing to Put in the Work‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at EclipseDOT.com.

Imbalance is not a bad thing

Posted on by dan_adm

Imbalance is not a bad thing.

Embracing imbalance can often pave the way for growth and unforeseen opportunities.

Allow me to recount a time from our past when we undertook the monumental task of constructing our home. It was a period marked by significant imbalances. Jenna and I had always harbored the dream of building our own house, and we were resolute in our decision to do so.

Before we commenced this endeavor, we established two non-negotiable conditions. Firstly, we agreed not to embark on this journey while Jenna was pregnant. Her active involvement in the construction process was essential, and we both understood that her well-being was paramount. We cherished our unity, but pregnancy brought discomfort, irritability, and challenges that would hinder our progress.

Secondly, we decided that our children’s rooms would be identical in size, ensuring fairness and averting any potential disputes over perceived inequalities. These agreements seemed sensible and harmonious at the time.

Regrettably, we failed to invite God into these deliberations; we made our decisions in isolation. Perhaps, in His infinite wisdom, He observed our plans and decided to intervene.

In February of 2011, we embarked on the arduous task of building our home. However, in March of 2012, just 14 months into our construction journey, Brianna Lynn Greer arrived in our lives. It’s amusing to note the timeline; Jenna became pregnant shortly after we commenced building—proof, perhaps, of divine irony.

Our home was meticulously designed to accommodate two children. Yet, as fate would have it, we now find ourselves blessed with four. Consequently, the symmetry of our initial plan dissolved, and none of our children ended up with identical rooms—a delightful reminder of life’s unpredictable twists and turns.

Anyway, let’s refocus on the essence of this story.

Over the 14 months it took to construct our home, our lives were profoundly imbalanced. It’s important to understand that Jenna and I didn’t just commission the construction of our house; we physically built it ourselves, with our own two hands. Save for two exceptions, we handled every aspect of the project independently.

The first task we outsourced was the tape and texture of our drywall. My grandfather generously arranged for some friends to assist with this aspect of the project. The second task was the stucco application. A group approached us, offering their services at such a reasonable price that we couldn’t refuse.

When I say we built our home, I mean it in the truest sense. From digging the foundation and pouring concrete to framing, plumbing, wiring, and installing in-floor heating, we were fully immersed in every step of the process. Our methods were so innovative that they often surpassed contemporary standards. During inspections, inspectors marveled at our work, acknowledging its superiority and foresight.

Our commitment to this project was unwavering. I would go to my day job, return home, and immediately begin working on the house until late into the night, only to repeat the cycle the next day. Weekends were no exception; I’d start before dawn and continue working under artificial light well into the evening.

Undoubtedly, it was a period of significant imbalance. However, the payoff was immense. After just 14 months of relentless dedication to our home’s construction, we’ve been able to enjoy its comforts for over 12 years and counting.

Originally, the decision to construct our home independently stemmed from a family tradition: my father built his own, and my grandparents did the same. Of course, the prospect of significant cost savings also factored into our choice.

Reflecting on it now, I firmly believe that God guided us to undertake this incredible endeavor. He wanted to instill in me the unwavering belief that I’m capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. He needed to show me that ridicule from the world shouldn’t deter me; instead, it should ignite the flames of my determination.

Through this process, He prepared me for the challenges of entrepreneurship, teaching me that periods of imbalance are necessary for reaching extraordinary goals. As we bootstrap a multi-million-dollar business, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned during the construction of our home—a testament to the power of perseverance and unwavering belief in oneself.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Give Credit to God” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Independence day

Posted on by dan_adm

Independence Day

“True patriotism isn’t merely about flag-waving; it’s about ensuring our nation stands for righteousness as well as strength.” James Bryce

As we approach this weekend, we’re gearing up to revel in our country’s independence, and let me tell you, it’s nothing short of spectacular!

Reflecting on our history, it’s incredible to think how slim our chances of survival were, let alone winning the war. But here’s the kicker: We didn’t play by the rules. While the British stuck to tradition with their red coats and orderly formations, we threw convention out the window. We took cover behind trees and in gullies, camouflaging ourselves to blend into the surroundings. It was guerrilla warfare before anyone knew what that meant. The Brits were left scratching their heads because they’d never seen anything like it.

Little did we know, halfway through the struggle, the Spanish threw us a lifeline by setting up a blockade, cutting off the British supply route. Talk about an unexpected assistant! It’s a reminder that often we’re aided by forces we don’t even recognize.

Just like in the war, in our everyday lives, unseen helpers are guiding us. Whether it’s unseen allies or a higher power, their influence is there, quietly shaping our journey.

Now, back to that bit about bending the rules. Sometimes, the path to success requires us to think beyond the norm and push the boundaries. It may raise eyebrows, but it’s not cheating; it’s innovation. Take Russell Brunson and his brainchild, Click Funnels. He didn’t just create a website builder; he revolutionized the concept into something entirely new—a funnel.

So, as we celebrate our independence, let’s remember the lessons of our past: that true patriotism is about resilience, innovation, and the unseen forces that guide us along the way.

Isn’t it mind-blowing? He took an existing idea, flipped it on its head, slapped a new label on it, and boom—click funnels are now raking in millions annually.

Sure, it might seem like a far cry from the fight for independence, but at its core, the principle remains the same. Both instances required a seismic shift in thinking, a bold departure from the status quo, and ultimately led to victory. They rewrote the playbook, changing not just how we act but also how we perceive the world around us.

Today, let’s take a moment to express gratitude to every single person who has served our nation. Your sacrifices have paved the way for us to live in what many consider the greatest country on Earth. Without your courage and dedication, our daily lives would be radically different.

So, here’s a heartfelt THANK YOU to all who have served, to those currently in service, and to the future generations who will carry the torch. May you and your families be blessed abundantly, and may your legacy of valor endure through the ages.

Take your leadership skills to new heights with personalized coaching. Discover tailored guidance at Eclipse DOT.

Is Coaching right for you?

Posted on by dan_adm

Is Coaching Right for You

Ever find yourself tuning into those podcasts hosted by entrepreneurs, only to feel like you’re being bombarded with one resounding message: “You’ve got to shell out for coaching if you want to make it big—or at least get there faster”?

It’s like a relentless drumbeat, isn’t it? These voices make it sound as if coughing up cash for coaching is the secret sauce to success. But is it? Let’s dive deeper.

Can you believe it? I took the plunge and hired my first coach, holding nothing back.

Now, get this: I’m in the transportation industry, but I decided to hire a fitness coach. Yeah, talk about a curveball! This guy didn’t know the first thing about my line of work. I mean, he didn’t even know you needed a CDL to drive a truck! What was I thinking?

Sure, he was great at getting individuals pumped up and seeing results, but when it came to navigating the ins and outs of landing contracts in my industry, he was clueless. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Lesson learned: It’s not that coaches can’t help; it’s about finding the right match.

Don’t just take advice from anyone who crosses your path. Do your homework before you fork over your hard-earned cash. See, when I first engaged with these guys, everything seemed rosy. But, as it turned out, they were just running me through a well-rehearsed sales pitch. Sneaky, right? Despite my suspicions, I still got roped in. They didn’t bother asking about my real goals; they were just following a script to get me on board.

And let me tell you something about me—I despise scripts. Back in the day, when I was a kid, we’d put on these one-act plays. But instead of sticking to the script like glue, I’d always veer off course, injecting humor wherever I could. The directors weren’t always thrilled with my improvisations!

It took me a while to grasp it, but I realized God’s whisper was steering me away from scripting anything in my business. He was nudging me toward a more personal approach—the essence of what true business should be.

Now, let’s tackle the big question: Do I believe in the power of coaching to catapult you to the next level? Absolutely. But—and this is crucial—finding the right coach for you is paramount. Do your due diligence. Research, ask for a trial period, and don’t hesitate to cut ties if they’re not the right fit. It’s your journey, after all.

You see, I’m not bitter about my past coaching experiences. I see them as valuable lessons that sharpened my eye for what I truly need in a mentor.

Before you commit, dive into their podcasts, devour their blogs, and peek into their personal lives (just a bit) to ensure compatibility. And remember, it’s okay to pivot and seek a refund if things don’t align. After all, if you don’t deliver the goods your customers expect, wouldn’t they demand a refund?

I hope this insight guides you on your quest to find the perfect coach. Go out there, stay safe, and keep moving forward with the rubber side down.

Best,
Dan!

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘Mentors‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at EclipseDOT.com.

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