Take care of yourself!

Take Care of Yourself

Have you ever experienced the struggle of tying your shoes and feeling like it’s difficult to breathe when you bend over? I’ve found myself in that situation multiple times in my life. You know what I did? Absolutely nothing. It didn’t occur to me that my health was impacting my overall well-being. Others may have noticed, but I remained oblivious. All I recognized was that I didn’t feel as good as I used to.

Here’s the thing: health is something we have complete control over. We can opt for water over soda, choose salad instead of a candy bar, and make healthier eating choices overall. However, the reality is that many times we resist making these healthier choices. We often turn to sugary foods as a coping mechanism—a way to get through the day. It becomes our lifeline and our source.

of sustenance, if you will.

Hey, I understand—I’ve been there before, and guess what? I’m there now.

One thing I’ve realized is that my eating habits and how I feel are directly linked to my performance. Moreover, before I embarked on this journey on my own, solely with God in the business, performance wasn’t as crucial. However, now that I rely on my health and motivation to stay afloat and pay the bills, I’ve noticed that even a small workout significantly boosts my energy levels for the day.

Another observation I’ve made is regarding the amount of sleep I get. I come from a family where my dad, well, he might have been a bit of an exaggerator when it came to his sleep schedule. Don’t get me wrong, I love my dad, but he took pride in telling people that he woke up at 3:30 am and went to bed at 10:30, “right after the news.” (I never had the heart to tell him that he could catch the same news at 6:30, 8:30, and 9:30.) Now, to be fair, my dad did indeed rise early—he never fibbed about that. With two cows to milk before heading off to work, his mornings started early, usually around 5:30 or 6 a.m., and his workplace was at least 30 minutes away. However, where he may have stretched the truth was about his bedtime. He conveniently omitted the fact that he often dozed off in his chair from 7:30 to 10:00, only waking up briefly to catch the news before truly turning in for the night.

Anyway, I used to believe that men didn’t require much sleep, but I’ve learned better now—thanks to my wife’s teachings, of course. Lol. Over the past year, I’ve completely overhauled my schedule. I now ensure that I’m either in bed or preparing for bed by 9 p.m., and I rise around 4:30 a.m. I dedicate the first hour and a half of my day to accomplishing important tasks, such as sending birthday wishes to everyone on Facebook, reading scripture, and tackling projects that would otherwise be interrupted by distractions.

The point is that we all have different work styles. However, I’ve come to realize that if you’re sleep-deprived, your performance throughout the day will suffer. Imagine sitting in a meeting with a client and yawning because you stayed up too late or woke up excessively early for no reason. It doesn’t exactly earn you brownie points. I’ve personally witnessed how off-putting it can be for clients. I’ve had clients approach me, questioning, “What’s up with Joe? He seems disengaged—I even caught him nodding off during the meeting!”

Do yourself and your career a favor: prioritize getting enough sleep and taking care of yourself. Remember, it’s never beneficial to pour yourself into anything excessively!

Exercise is another vital component of a successful day. Simply commuting from your house to your car, then to the office, and sitting for most of the day, followed by the reverse journey, and ending with an evening of TV-watching won’t leave you feeling great about yourself.

I understand there are various types of people here: those who work out regularly and are in great shape; those who struggle with weight and likely don’t feel very good; and then there are those who maintain mostly healthy lifestyles and are content with their bodies.

I typically fall somewhere between unhealthy and almost content with my body type. While I acknowledge that I could improve and exercise more, I’ve chosen to be content with the way God made me. However, when I start feeling like I can’t breathe while tying my shoes, I recognize that it’s time to step up my efforts.

Here’s my recommendation for exercise: discover an activity that you genuinely enjoy. I’ve found running to be my passion, despite disliking it as a kid. Begin by dedicating just one day a week to exercise, allocating around 20 minutes for it. If you notice improvements in how you feel, consider increasing it to twice a week. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself engaging in some form of exercise every day of the week.

When it comes to eating right, there are a few strategies you can implement. One effective approach is to keep a case of water in your vehicle. I opt for reusable water bottles and ensure I have one in my truck every day. Having water readily available helps curb cravings for other beverages.

Challenge yourself privately to see how long you can go without soda or energy drinks—no one else needs to know. The longest I’ve managed was five years, and during that time, I felt the best I ever had about my body. Another tip is to choose a salad instead of a burger when dining out; this simple switch has been a significant success for me.

Here’s my tip for sleeping: Take a cue from the birds. When the sun sets, start thinking about finding a cozy spot to roost for the night. Then, when the sun rises, you’ll be ready to start your day. Instead of boasting about how late you can stay up, take pride in how well you sleep. Set your alarm and resist hitting snooze. The moment your alarm goes off, get out of bed, and hit the ground running.

The final piece of advice I’d like to share is the importance of setting aside some time for yourself every day, even if it’s just a little. I understand how challenging this can be, especially with family, work, and all the other demands of life. However, if you neglect to prioritize a few moments of peace to unwind, you’ll find yourself in the doctor’s office sooner rather than later. Stress and worry are among the leading causes of health issues today. So, take a few moments to switch off your phone and truly take a break. Trust me, the world can wait for you for 10 minutes.

You’ve only got one body, so make sure you take care of it. Don’t fill it with junk. I remember a teacher once telling me, “You are what you eat.” I didn’t used to put much faith in that, but now I realize they were right. If you consume a lot of unhealthy food, you’ll feel sluggish and low on energy. However, if you maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, you’ll feel much more vibrant and ready to tackle the day.

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘How I lost weight while eating more!‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at EclipseDOT.com.

Take Time to be with Your Family

Take time to be with your family.

One of the toughest challenges of adulthood is finding the time to slow down and spend quality moments with your family. We often have this inclination to stay busy, sometimes to the point where we forget to savor life’s simple joys. I believe that the higher power understood this struggle, which is why we were given one day of rest every week. However, whether we choose to embrace that day of rest is entirely up to us.

Regardless of your beliefs, today I’m going to share a few simple steps to help you cherish your family moments while still feeling productive.

Rise earlier.

Before I even leaped into entrepreneurship, I began the practice of waking up earlier. Although I’ve always been an early riser, 6 a.m. was my usual time. Now, my new sweet spot is around 4:30. This grants me an extra hour and a half to accomplish a myriad of tasks before anyone else in my household even stirs. However, there are some tricks to this adjustment. Don’t do what I initially did—I attempted to shift from 6 a.m. to 4 a.m. in just one week, and it was a miserable failure. My kids even remarked, “Dad, you’re extra grumpy.” I was indeed quite irritable. A better approach is to gradually wake up 15 minutes earlier each week until you reach your desired wake-up time. For instance, in the first week, wake up at 5:45, then at 5:30 the following week, and continue in this manner until you reach your goal.

The second key to waking up earlier is to resist the urge to hit snooze; instead, force yourself out of bed the moment the alarm goes off. Hitting snooze sends signals to your brain that you’re not ready to start the day or that you’re too tired for it. As a result, when you eventually get up, you’re groggy and not at your best. After about three weeks of following my current schedule, I noticed that I was naturally waking up a few minutes earlier each morning. I’d even beat my alarm and silence it to avoid waking my wife.

Prioritize your family.

We frequently prioritize work, yet we often overlook the importance of prioritizing our families.
Consider how many times you’ve paused work for your family’s needs.
Now, reverse that scenario: How often have you disrupted family moments for work obligations?

I agree! It’s astonishing how many times work interferes with family moments. Here are some tips to help prioritize your family:

Schedule “do not disturb” times: Designate specific times during the day, such as breakfast, dinner, and bedtime, when you switch your phone to “do not disturb” mode. If that’s not feasible, leave your phone in your bedroom or home office while spending time with your family.

Silence your devices: When engaging in family activities like games or movie nights, turn off your phone ringer and consider removing your smartwatch. You might miss a few steps for your step count, but it’s worth it for quality family time!

Allocate specific time slots in your calendar for family activities. I thoroughly enjoy dedicating moments to collaborating with my children and wife on meaningful projects. Initially, I would schedule these sessions in my calendar under the label “family” and set reminders. It may sound unconventional, but it proved effective for me.

Arrange phone calls while traveling for work to stay connected with your family.

I used to travel frequently for work, and it took a toll on my marriage and relationship with my children. So, as a family, we brainstormed solutions to address this issue. Since stopping travel wasn’t feasible, we decided to schedule daily phone calls when I was away. Whenever possible, I made video calls each evening, ranging from 20 minutes to an hour. The key was to ensure I wasn’t distracted during these calls. I would retreat to my hotel room, turn off any distractions like the TV or laptop, and sit down to fully engage in the conversation, being fully present for my family.

Work in a shared space when you’re at home.

When I initially transitioned to working from home, I set up a cozy office space in my basement and spent most of my day there. It felt like I was secluded, only emerging for quick breaks. However, I soon realized I wanted to be more present when my kids woke up, so I started bringing my work upstairs to the kitchen table in the evenings. This allowed me to seamlessly transition to work in the morning while still being available to greet my kids. Eventually, I found myself working from the kitchen table full-time, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made since working from home.

Now, I take more frequent breaks to assist my kids with their tasks and projects. There were some learning curves for both my kids and me. They learned that even though I’m home, I can’t always stop what I’m doing instantly. Similarly, I learned that it’s okay to pause and help them—it’s all part of enjoying life and spending time with those who matter most.

Plan a getaway to relax and recharge.

Plan a family vacation, or if finances are tight, opt for a staycation. Consider destinations like San Diego, where you can rent a house by the ocean and unwind without a packed itinerary. Stick to your morning routine, even on vacation, to ensure you have time to complete work tasks before everyone else wakes up. This way, you can fully enjoy your time with your family.

Throughout my life, I’ve struggled with this dilemma. I get so caught up in work that I lose sight of the reason I’m working in the first place. Ultimately, I work to create opportunities for our family to enjoy quality time together. It’s a constant reminder for me to take breaks and cherish moments with my children because they won’t be with us forever. Well, at least that’s my hope!


Ensure that you prioritize what truly matters to you. No one ever lamented on their deathbed, “I wish I had spent more time at work.” 
Even if you’re not a fan of country music, take a moment to listen to Billy Ray Cyrus’s song “Busy Man” and absorb the lyrics.

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘Balancing work, family and fun‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at Eclipse DOT.

Taking Ownership

Taking Ownership

Success is elusive until you take full ownership of your actions and responsibilities.

Dan Greer

Recently, I assisted a company in regaining compliance, despite the challenging task of traveling across the western US during the winter. Throughout this experience, I gained valuable insights.

First and foremost, I realized the pivotal role of taking ownership of any project for its success. Upon arriving at their administrative office, it became evident that no one had previously taken full ownership of the DOT program. Like many organizations, the responsibility had been passed from one person to another, resulting in repeated failures and a compliance rate of less than 10%.

Stepping in to assist, we made remarkable progress. Within the first two weeks, the compliance rate soared to over 40%, reaching over 50% by the end of the third week and now standing at over 90%. So, what made the difference? It was simple—I took ownership of the program.

I made it my priority to engage with as many drivers as possible, identifying and rectifying underlying issues. Others had shied away, citing the situation as too chaotic to handle and expressing sentiments like, “This is just too much of a mess right now. Once it’s under control, then my team can handle it.” Such attitudes only perpetuate the problem and hinder genuine success.

Sadly, a member of their team had recently abandoned the project, passing it on to someone else due to a perceived lack of time. However, the truth is clear—without genuine ownership, true success is unattainable.

Taking ownership is crucial for several reasons, which we’ll explore next.

When we take ownership of a project, we ensure its success. There’s no room for excuses like “We did our best” or “It’s not my fault if a third of the company didn’t attend our meetings at every location” (which happened). When someone truly owns a project, nothing, absolutely nothing, can impede its progress. That’s why taking ownership is paramount.

Imagine starting a new project with only a half-hearted commitment. What are the chances of its survival? About 25% at best. But when you commit 125%, there’s no room for failure because you’re giving it your all. You tackle obstacles head-on, finding solutions and overcoming them.

Now, if you don’t take ownership, what happens when obstacles arise? You become disheartened and give up. When I discovered that 100 drivers hadn’t attended our meetings while we were traveling, I had two options.

Option 1 was to blame the managers and organizers. But what would that achieve? Absolutely nothing besides assigning blame.

Option 2 was to find solutions. I chose this path. It wasn’t easy, but it was the only viable option. I delved into the system, identified what was needed for full compliance, and reached out to each driver individually.

By taking ownership of the project, we navigated through obstacles as they arose, ensuring its success.

Today, I want to urge everyone to embrace ownership in all their endeavors. Whether it’s scrubbing toilets or loading a rocket with fuel, take ownership.

Commit yourself to ensuring that it gets done because you’re determined to make it happen. So go out there and take pride in your work!

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘Being a leader when you are NOT in charge‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at EclipseDOT.com.

Taking responsibility for our actions

Taking Responsibility for Our Actions

“When you blame others, you give away your power. But when you take responsibility, you reclaim that power and empower yourself to transform your life.”

Yesterday, I recorded my second-ever VLOG/podcast for Leading from the Middle of the Pack.

I have a unique approach—I dislike scripts. As a kid, I participated in one-act plays for our community, and I was the actor who detested sticking to the lines.

It wasn’t because I was a bad kid or actor; I simply preferred adding my spin to make it mine. That’s why I never pursued drama in high school.

Returning to the point, I’m more of a bullet-point guy than a script guy. So, when I prepared to record this vlog/podcast, I had my topic in front of me and nothing else: “Why It’s Important as A Leader To Take Responsibility For Our Mistakes!” (shameless plug—check out episode 46).

As I discussed the topic, I realized there are three critical reasons why we need to take responsibility for our actions. The first reason is for our peace of mind. Surprisingly, I used to never accept responsibility for my mistakes.

I was always finding excuses, refusing to acknowledge fault. When we make excuses, it does a few damaging things internally. It convinces our minds that there is nothing we could have done differently for a better outcome. However, there’s always something we could have done differently to achieve a different result.

Another detrimental effect of making excuses is that it perpetuates the cycle of repeating the same mistakes.

Albert Einstein famously said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different outcome.” His words offer profound wisdom—if we desire different results, we must change our approach.

However, if we believe there was nothing we could have done differently, nothing will ever change. By absolving ourselves of responsibility, we unwittingly perpetuate the same ineffective behaviors.

The next reason to take responsibility for our mistakes is the impact they have on those around us. Consider this scenario: Who would you trust more? Someone who acknowledges their mistake and outlines steps to rectify it, or someone who shifts blame and claims powerlessness. Most would trust the person who owns up to their error.

We are naturally drawn to leaders who display vulnerability because it makes them relatable. By taking responsibility, we not only demonstrate integrity but also appear stronger and more trustworthy to others.

Lastly, consider the example we set for those who look up to us when we take responsibility for our mistakes.

Whether we realize it or not, there is always someone who admires us. Reflect on the individuals you look up to—are they flawless or flawed? 
Do they admit their mistakes or deny them? Are they arrogant or humble? Chances are that the most respected figures in your life are those who demonstrate humility and accountability.

By taking ownership of our mistakes, we inspire others to do the same and cultivate a culture of honesty and growth.

Is his name Dan? Just kidding, lol.

But seriously, here’s the point: We don’t look up to people because they’re flawless. There’s only been one perfect human who walked this earth, and his name was Jesus.

Consider this: if the people we admire aren’t perfect and make mistakes, why can’t we? It’s time to act.

The next time you slip up, own it. Don’t expect immediate forgiveness—it’s not always that simple. Just say, “Hey folks, I messed up. And I’m committed to fixing it.”

A bit more

As I reflect on my past (a rare moment of introspection for me, lol), all my mistakes come to mind. Not like cream on milk, more like oil on water—kind of cool to observe, but you don’t want to touch it, lol.

Anyways…

I’ve made a ton of mistakes, and in the past, I wasn’t always quick to admit them. Today isn’t about listing all those past blunders—that would take forever, lol.

Instead, let’s focus on one mistake from a while back that I only recently acknowledged.

A couple of years ago, I attended a marketing convention I was hyped about. After landing, I hailed an Uber to my hotel and checked in. Walking to my room, I felt the excitement building in my stomach.

I’m usually okay in crowds and don’t easily get caught up in the hype. I owe that trait to my mom—she’s a pro at keeping her emotions in check. Though sometimes I wonder if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, because I can hardly read her. Except when she’s mad, then it’s crystal clear, lol.

As I made my way to my room and unpacked, I couldn’t help but notice the hotel adorned with banners for the event. The sheer scale of it all—the omnipresence of their brand—was both exhilarating and daunting. What had I gotten myself into?

Later, I headed down to register, reluctantly donning the obligatory name tag and wristband. I’ve always despised name tags. Then, with some time to spare before the conference kicked off the next day, I decided to explore the hotel.

As I wandered, I couldn’t help but notice that nearly everyone I encountered was sporting some sort of event swag or nametag. It was impressive, but it also intensified the butterflies fluttering in my stomach.

After grabbing dinner, I retreated to my room for the night. The next morning, I arrived at the event an hour early, not entirely sure what to expect. As I approached the venue, I was greeted by a throng of people. And when I say throng, I mean there were quite a few. Little did I know, there were about 4500 attendees!

The butterflies returned with a vengeance, my mouth went dry, and striking up conversations seemed daunting. This was a business event, and it wasn’t lost on me that I had only recently hired my first employee—for the second time, mind you. The first attempt at hiring hadn’t panned out due to a lack of work, and having to let someone go was gut-wrenching. It’s a side of starting a business they don’t warn you about—you’re responsible for someone else’s livelihood.

All these emotions resurfaced as I surveyed the massive crowd. So, I found a quiet corner near a door, opting not to engage with anyone, and waited for the doors to open.

The next four days were truly remarkable, and I did manage to connect with some incredible people. But looking back, I realized I made a mistake—I didn’t fully immerse myself in the experience. Instead, after each day, I retreated to my room, repeating the same pattern.

My error? I retreated into introversion when I’m an extreme extrovert. I mean, I strike up conversations with strangers on the street and in the grocery store!

Right after that conference, I acknowledged my mistake, and since then, I’ve committed to embracing my true self whenever I attend events. I’ve become that person who strikes up conversations with everyone and faces challenges without fear.

But just imagine if I had said, “I tried talking to people, but no one wanted to engage with me!” Where would I be today? Nowhere!

Even worse, I might have convinced myself that I’m introverted and dislike group settings. That would have completely altered my life and business trajectory.

When we take ownership of our mistakes, it opens the door to growth. So, go out there, acknowledge your mistakes, and use them as fuel to propel your growth!

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

Teaching with Stories

Teaching With Stories

Let’s kick off this blog with a little tale… Once upon a time, in a land far, far, far, far away… Just kidding. Well, sort of. Lol.

My friend Jenna and I took a stroll around our property and realized it could use a couple of new trees. The front of our house looked quite bare, offering little more than a view of my parent’s house and the county road. Even from my office downstairs, peering out the door’s window, all I could see was the chicken coop and lamb pin. It’s tough to feel inspired when your view includes a chicken coop, you know?

I suggested to Jenna that we go on an impromptu afternoon date to Cortez, which is only about an hour’s drive away. She’s always up for an adventure with me, so she didn’t hesitate to say yes. Without questioning our destination, she happily joined me as we loaded up in our truck and set off for Cortez.

During the drive, we had some wonderful conversations about various topics. Just before reaching Cortez, I made a turn onto a county road, prompting Jenna to inquire about our change of route. I assured her that we were indeed heading to Cortez, but I had a brief stop to make first.

Jenna’s easygoing nature shone through as she simply responded, “Sweet, I love adventures with you.” We continued down a few more county roads until we eventually arrived at a mile-long driveway. Throughout the journey, Jenna and I chatted amiably, but she couldn’t help but wonder where we were headed.

With a tender gaze, I assured her that we were not lost and that I knew exactly where we were going. I promised her that she would love it. As we pulled into the Pleasant Tree Farm, her face lit up with pure joy, realizing my surprise.

With excitement evident in her voice, she exclaimed, “Did you bring me here to pick out some trees for our home?”

“Indeed, I did,” I replied with a smile.

We leisurely strolled through rows and rows of trees, carefully selecting six new additions to plant in our yard later that year, ensuring they would be dug up after they went dormant. When spring arrived, we returned to the farm, retrieved our six amazing trees, and transported them home. With careful hands, we planted four in the front of the house and two where I could easily admire them from my basement office window.

Witnessing God’s creations flourish in our yard is truly a remarkable experience.

You see, by engaging you in our story, I’ve created a connection. I could have simply stated, “Jenna planted a few trees in our yard. Trees have to be dug when they are dormant.” But which version draws you in more?

The best teachers often impart their lessons through stories. Jesus himself employed parables, which are essentially simple stories used to illustrate moral or spiritual lessons.

Do you use stories to teach others? I find that stories are incredibly effective for conveying all sorts of lessons. Sometimes they’re brief, lasting only 30 seconds, while on other occasions, they may extend for over 30 minutes. But regardless of length, stories have a unique ability to captivate and engage people, making the lessons they convey all the more memorable.

Take action!

Here’s the plan:

First, I’d like you to teach a concept using a story. Stories have a way of making information more relatable and memorable. You might already be using this approach without even realizing it.

After you’ve taught using a story, I want you to convey the same concept to someone else without using a story. This could involve a more straightforward explanation or perhaps using visual aids or examples.

Finally, we’ll compare how quickly each person grasps the concept. This experiment will help us understand the effectiveness of storytelling as a teaching tool compared to other methods. Are you ready to give it a try?

A little more

I might have shared this story before, but it’s such a powerful one that I learned from Myron Golden, and it’s worth repeating.

At a recent youth event, I asked for three volunteers who never usually step forward for anything. You could spot them easily because their friends were practically lifting their hands for them. The ones who were willing to raise their own hands were not the ones truly terrified of being called upon.

Then, I called three of those hesitant kids up onto the stage, one by one. Each of them bravely made their way up.

I held the microphone and asked each of them their name. The first girl, Rebecca, whispered hers into the mic. The next, Rachel, mustered up all her courage to say hers aloud. Then came the boy, Sheo. He stood there, avoiding eye contact, knowing what was coming. When he finally spoke, he said his name so quietly that I had to repeat it for everyone to hear.

I reached into my wallet and pulled out a few bills, making sure the kids on stage could see the larger ones. I had $50, a $20, and a $10.

Then, I asked all three if any of them wanted some cash. They all nodded eagerly, although none of them voiced their answer.

I fanned out the bills in my hand and explained the challenge: they had to take just one bill from my hand while my eyes were closed.

I closed my eyes, expecting someone to take the bill, but nothing happened.

Nothing. I mean, it was dead silent, except for the distant chirping of crickets and the shuffling of restless kids in their seats.

So, I opened my eyes, cracked a joke about it, and said, “Seriously, you have to take this or it’s going back into my pocket! Alright, let’s try this one more time.”

I closed my eyes again and extended my hand. After about 30 seconds, one of the girls timidly reached out and took a bill, followed by the other girl about 10 seconds later. Finally, the boy approached and took the last bill.

I hadn’t seen who took what since my eyes were closed. When I finally opened them, I saw them hiding the bills behind their backs. (I hadn’t told them to hide them.)

I couldn’t help but laugh. “You all just got a little richer, and you’re choosing to hide it!”

Next, I asked who took the $50. The girl who had it proudly held it up. “You took action first, so you get the biggest reward! Who got the $20?” The next girl showed hers.

“You acted next, so your reward was higher than the person who acted last. Waiting means you get half the reward.”

Then, I turned to the boy. “What happened, buddy?” He just shrugged and looked at the floor.

“You’re twice as strong as these girls. You should’ve been the one with the $50. But hey, you still acted, so you still get rewarded. How do you feel?”

His response surprised me. “I feel like I shouldn’t have hesitated. Because I did, I ended up with just a fifth of what I could’ve had.”

I asked him, “What did you learn?”

“Take action instead of hesitating, especially when you feel encouraged by God to do something; just go for it!”

I could have simply said, “I gave some kids money to show them the importance of taking action,” but would you truly grasp the significance without the story?

Not!

Similarly, if I had just relayed the story to those youths, would they have fully understood the lesson about acting?

Not!

Do you now understand why storytelling is so essential in teaching?

So, go out there, take action, and start teaching with stories!

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘What I learned when I read the book Traction (EOS)‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at EclipseDOT.com.

The 7 WHYs

Have you ever heard of the 7 WHYs?

This is something I stumbled upon just a few years ago. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that uncovers the underlying reason behind your desires or needs.

Here’s how it works: You keep asking yourself, “Why?” repeatedly until you reach the core answer.

Recently, I guided a team member through this process, helping them unearth the true motivation behind their personal goals. While I won’t divulge their why—it’s their journey—I’m happy to share one of mine.

So, if you’re ready, I’m about to share something deeply personal and a tad intimidating for me.

Here it goes…

I found myself pondering the reasons behind my ambition to grow Eclipse DOT and build DOT Docs.

Let’s dive right in.

Question: Why do you want to build a company?

Answer: Because I see it as an opportunity to create something meaningful and impactful.

Q: Why do you want to start a company?

A: Because I want to assist others and earn money.

Q: Why do you want to help others and make money?

A: Because I want to give my family a great life.

Q: Why do you want to provide a great life for your family?

A: Because I don’t want my wife and kids to see me as a failure.

Q: Why do you think your wife and kids would see you as a failure?

A: Because I couldn’t provide for them, and they missed out on things they were supposed to experience.

Q: Why do you think they would miss out on things?

A: Because I missed out on things as a kid when funds were tight.

Q: Why do you think funds were tight?

A: Because my parents didn’t have a mindset of abundance.

Q: Why do you think having an abundance mindset is so important?

A: Because it lets you grow into anything you want and achieve what you believe is possible.

Q: Why is that so important?

A: Because a life without achievement isn’t fulfilling.

Q: Why is achievement important?

A: Because it measures significance.

Q: Why is importance crucial?

A: Because it influences how your kids perceive you.

We delved deeper than seven rounds of questioning, but we finally reached the core reason why I desired to launch a business.

It’s because I want my children to perceive my achievements as extraordinary. I don’t want them to view me as ordinary or just like everyone else. Instead, I hope they see me as someone who cares for others, fosters growth, and genuinely makes a difference in the world.

I rely on the 7 WHYs method whenever I face significant investment or decision-making situations. Before purchasing our plane, I conducted the 7 WHYs exercise multiple times to uncover the genuine motive (which, in case you’re curious, was to create unique family experiences and spend more quality time with them).

I’ll be completely honest with you: I recommend finding someone you trust deeply to undertake this exercise together.

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.

The Secret To Getting More Applications For Every Position

The Secret to Getting More Applications for Every Position

How we attracted a flood of applicants for the recently opened positions and successfully recruited A-Team players to join our team.

Lately, a common refrain from decision-makers is, “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find good help!” While I don’t entirely disagree with that sentiment, I believe there’s plenty of excellent talent out there eager for significant career opportunities. What they need is a compelling cause to rally behind and an exceptional leader to guide them in making their mark in the world.

As a leader, your task is to cultivate a compelling movement that attracts people to join. Moreover, you must ensure they have the support and resources to thrive and develop.

So, how do you achieve this?

Firstly, it starts with intentionality. When Jenna and I launched Eclipse DOT, we made a deliberate choice: we aimed to be the premier workplace where people would clamor to join our team. That’s what it means to start with intentionality—aspiring to be the best.

Consider Apple. They set out long ago to become the ultimate employer, and they followed through by offering pioneering benefits that set them apart. They fostered an extraordinary company culture, earning not just employees but devoted fans. Ever tried giving an Apple user an Android device? They’ll likely recoil in horror—that’s how loyal they are to Apple.

By starting with intentionality, Apple reaps the rewards.

Secondly, you must refuse to tolerate unacceptable behavior. Does this mean firing everyone who steps out of line?

Absolutely not!

What I mean is that everyone must understand the boundaries and the repercussions of crossing them. The more you tolerate, the more likely you’ll attract B-team players.

Here’s the thing: A-team players prefer collaborating with others of their caliber. They dislike shouldering all the workload, while B-team players aren’t too enthusiastic about putting in the extra effort. As a result, A-team players quickly become frustrated with this imbalance.

The more you tolerate, the more you compromise.

While I consider myself a very understanding person and tend to be lenient, everyone on my team is crystal clear about our boundaries and the consequences of overstepping them. Moreover, they understand that I’ll never assign them a task I haven’t tackled countless times before.

This brings us to the importance of being an exceptional leader, not just a boss if you aim to attract top-notch talent to your team.

Nobody likes working for a boss!

A-team players won’t stick around if they feel like they’re being bossed around. They’ll head for the door faster than you can say “promotion.”

But seriously, attracting top talent requires fair compensation. I’m not just talking about a decent salary; it’s about recognizing their contributions with rewards and incentives along the way.

On our team, we frequently provide salary increases to demonstrate our gratitude for our team and their efforts in advancing our mission.

However, compensation is just one of countless ways to express appreciation. There are numerous other ways to demonstrate care, such as offering an enhanced vacation package that grows more rapidly than the industry standard. Additionally, consider organizing an annual company trip that caters to families, fostering a family-friendly environment within the company.

You might consider hosting monthly company gatherings where you provide lunch and facilitate brainstorming sessions to discuss the company’s direction. Involving everyone in decision-making boosts morale.

Another idea is to honor employees’ birthdays without hesitation. Better yet, offer them half a day off with pay on their children’s birthdays, allowing them to spend quality time with their families.

You can also recognize their wedding anniversaries with a thoughtful gift.

The possibilities are endless! There are numerous incentives you can offer to keep your team motivated and dedicated.

One of the most effective strategies we’ve discovered for retaining A-team players is simply asking them what we can do to support their success.

Just today, one of my team members called me. He said, “Hey Dan, there’s this online training by Russell Brunson (one of my mentors) coming up, and I’d like to attend. It’s this Thursday at 2 p.m. Would it be okay if I participated? It should only take about 2 hours, and (here’s the best part) I’ll clock out for that time! I’m eager to learn this.”

My response completely caught him off guard, to say the least.

“Hey, buddy, not only do I think that’s an amazing idea! I want to pay you to learn from it, so stay on the clock for it. But here’s the kicker: after the training, if you found it valuable and feel like you learned from it, I want to compensate you by attending more sessions with his team to help you grow!”

There was complete silence on the phone for about 30 seconds. Finally, I asked, “Did I lose you?”

His response gave me goosebumps. “Dan, that’s exactly why I love working with you. I come to you, scared to death to ask, and you’re like, not only yes, but HECK YES. And then you go and put whipped cream on top of that. I’ve never felt better about what I do or who I do it with.”

I want you to take a moment to re-read that. Go ahead, I’ll wait…

Notice the words he used. He doesn’t work for me; he works with me. He loves the mission that we are working toward. He loves the team he works with. He loves the fact that when he has amazing ideas, he gets credit for them.

Do you understand now?

I’m not suggesting that every job will attract a flood of applicants, and I’m certainly not claiming that every business can hire A-Team players all the time. But if you aspire to transform into an A-team employer, it’s a deliberate choice you must make.

Let me tell you, it won’t be a walk in the park. You’ll constantly face the temptation to compromise your standards and take the easy road. You might hesitate to offer that third raise in a year. You’ll face numerous challenges, but you must choose greatness.

If you’re interested in having our team assist you, reach out to us today at info@eclispe-dot.com. Our mission is to simplify your life so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.

Now go out there, rev up your engines, and start achieving greatness!

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘Goals, how to set and achieve any goal!‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at EclipseDOT.com.

Trust as a leader

Trust as a Leader

Throughout my upbringing, I often heard the adage, “Trust isn’t given; it’s earned.”

While I acknowledge the point, I also hold a different perspective on it. I concur with the notion that trust can be fragile and easily shattered. A single mistake can undermine all the trust that has been painstakingly built over time.

However, my disagreement stems from the necessity of trust for survival. Trust is an integral part of our daily lives; we rely on it when we venture into public spaces, trust our safety, or embark on routine activities like driving and relying on functional brakes. Similarly, trust plays a crucial role in professional settings, where we depend on the support of colleagues to collaborate effectively and achieve common goals.

Trust is undeniably one of life’s fundamental pillars, and it’s not solely about earning it—it’s also about extending it. Particularly for leaders, trust holds immense significance.

Reflect on past experiences under bosses lacking trust. How did it make you feel? Did it inspire motivation to go to work? Did you invest your full commitment and effort into tasks?

For me, the response is negative. When my boss lacked trust in me, I couldn’t perform at my optimal level because I felt my efforts would always fall short. Constant scrutiny of my actions hindered my ability to excel.

As a leader, if you don’t place trust in your team, you’re not maximizing their potential. While not everyone may relate to this, many will understand the impact of trust—or the lack thereof—on performance and morale.

As a parent, do you have faith in your children? When you assign them tasks, do you believe they will follow through?

Personally, I do. I have complete trust in my children’s efforts to accomplish tasks to the best of their abilities. While I acknowledge they may make mistakes and it may not be flawless, I recognize the importance of instilling trust in them. After all, what lesson am I imparting if I don’t trust them?

Do you recall how it felt as a child when your father entrusted you with a task? I vividly remember the first time my dad handed me a screwdriver and asked me to clean out the lawnmower’s carburetor. I was both terrified and exhilarated.

After completing the task, I presented it to him nervously. Despite finding a few mistakes, he never criticized or spoke down to me. Instead, he patiently explained how I could improve. He understood that it’s challenging to remember everything the first time you attempt something new.

The essence is that trust serves as the wing that enables teamwork to soar, while its absence can lead to the fragmentation of a team.

I once worked under a boss who, in a team of three, managed to divide us completely. Instead of fostering teamwork, he encouraged individual efforts, believing they would yield greater results. However, this approach fueled rivalry among us, sparking inner competition and ultimately fracturing the camaraderie we once shared. What started as a cohesive unit of three soon disintegrated, leaving us unwilling to even be in each other’s presence.

Due to his lack of trust in the team, it ultimately led to its failure.

Have you ever found yourself in a leadership role where you had to place complete trust in someone entirely new, someone you had never met before?

The next time you encounter a situation requiring trust in someone, I urge you to embrace it fully. Give them the benefit of the doubt and trust that they can handle the task just as effectively as you could, or perhaps even better. You never know until you give them the chance.

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

Trusting God

Trusting God

Having trust in God isn’t always a straightforward task.

Is it true? Honestly, I fail at earning trust every day—multiple times if I’m being completely honest.

Yet, amidst my shortcomings, one thing I’ve come to understand is that regardless of our failures, God always has our best interests at heart. He desires to see us succeed!

Never lose sight of that truth.

In Luke 11:11, it is written, “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?”

As a father myself, I can attest to the truth of this statement. So, why do I—and perhaps we—struggle to trust that God has everything under control?

The only explanation I can offer is that Satan is constantly active in everyone’s lives. He aims to instill doubt in us, questioning whether God can and will come through for us.

That’s Satan’s modus operandi. He plants seeds of doubt regarding God’s love for us. And when doubt takes root, fear begins to infiltrate our thoughts, our bodies, and eventually our souls.

How can I cultivate wholehearted trust in God?

The initial step involves aligning your mindset. Mindset serves as the cornerstone of success. If our mindset isn’t positive, it’s essential to make a change.

Numerous methods can shift our mindset. Personally, prayer proves to be the most effective for me. I continuously pray for God to shape my mindset by following His will, enabling me to fulfill His purposes.

Following that, it’s crucial to maintain an open mind and heart, allowing God to assume complete control.

During a different phase of my life, I frequently traveled for work. Every other Monday, I would board a flight, returning home on Fridays. There were months when I was only home on weekends, for which I was grateful. This routine persisted for 3.5 years.

It’s important to note that my wife had been married for over 10 years before this, and the longest we had ever been apart was for two consecutive nights. This adjustment was undeniably challenging, to say the least. I dreaded leaving the house on Monday mornings.

What fueled my perseverance was the understanding that, wherever I was headed, God had a purpose for me. He utilized me in every circumstance, orchestrating encounters with new individuals and initiating necessary conversations.

I had to shift my mindset to recognize that God had specific plans tailored for me. He provided opportunities, and it wasn’t until I opened my eyes to see that I realized His guidance and provision.

The crucial point to grasp is that, deep within your heart, God holds everything under His control.

When a client expresses a desire to back out of a contract, it’s important to recognize that God has a purpose behind it. He presents these challenges to teach us how to navigate such situations and facilitate our growth.

When we’re unable to secure that “giant” client, it’s because God has grander plans in store for us.

If we miss out on the job, we fervently desire, it’s because God has an even better opportunity awaiting us.

Every occurrence unfolds for a purpose. Once we recognize that God is not just a friend but also our constant guardian, we can relinquish our concerns about our circumstances and place our trust in God’s plan and timing.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Trust in God’s Plan and Persevere“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Wake up early

Wake up early

Waking up earlier to extend your day is a tip I’ve encountered in numerous books.

At first, I dismissed it as impractical, wondering if these authors were out of touch. However, I decided to give it a shot. Starting with setting my alarm 15 minutes earlier, I gradually shifted my wake-up time until I now wake up naturally around 4:30 a.m. every day, which has become a great habit!

What surprised me was how this simple change affected my entire day. By going to bed earlier, around 9:30–10 p.m., I ensure I get enough rest.

Waking early gives me a head start; I can complete tasks, exercise, or work on personal projects without any distractions, especially from my kids who are still asleep.

This early morning time, between 5:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., has become my magic time. During these hours, my creativity soars, and I achieve more than I do during any other part of the day.

My recommendation to you is to try this gradual approach. Begin by waking up 15 minutes earlier this week, and continue the trend next week. Notice how it impacts your productivity and overall well-being. Share your experience in the comments; I’m curious to hear your results.

By the way, one rule I strictly follow is never hitting the snooze button—it disrupts the rhythm I’ve established.

What time are you planning to wake up? Let me know; I’d love to hear about your journey towards a more productive morning routine!

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Encouragement in Daily Life: Small Acts, Big Effects” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

What I really learned getting my pilots license!

What I Really Learned About Getting My Pilot’s License

I’ve been relatively silent about my journey to becoming a pilot recently.

Partly due to the challenges I’ve been encountering, partly because of my hectic schedule, and partly because of feelings of embarrassment.

As you may already be aware, we purchased a twin-engine Cessna back in late April. However, we haven’t had many opportunities to use it thus far.

You see, I had been collaborating with a local instructor. I supported and assisted him in obtaining his multi-engine instructor qualification, using our plane for training.

Then, about 1.5 months after he received his instructor’s license, I went for a lesson on Tuesday. The next day, I received a call from him: “Hey Dan, do you have a moment to talk?”

He went on, “I have decided to step down from my role as an instructor. I will still oversee my flight school, but I won’t be conducting any more instruction.”

Despite my efforts to persuade him to continue working with me, I couldn’t change his mind. I exhausted all my attempts.

To put it mildly, I felt deflated.

On that very day, I began reaching out to contacts nationwide, searching for someone willing to assist me in obtaining multi-engine certification directly.

However, the response I received repeatedly was: “We’d be glad to assist you once you obtain your single-engine certification.”

Although I trusted that God had a plan, at that moment, I couldn’t discern what it was.

After spending another week searching nationwide, I shifted gears once more and connected with another local instructor who could assist me in obtaining my single-engine certification.

Following our initial lesson and experiencing the close quarters of the single-engine aircraft (which I humorously refer to as a “pop can” due to its compact size), I was determined to complete my multi-engine certification.

I promptly scheduled a check ride (test) for September, as there was only one local tester available in the area. Feeling adequately prepared for the examination, I eagerly awaited the day.

Upon arrival, I managed to pass the test, but just barely. To put it mildly, it was not a graceful performance.

Continuing to refine my skills in single-engine flying, the very next day, after passing my single-engine check ride, I began searching for a fast-track program to obtain my multi-engine certification.

I came across numerous options, but they were all fully booked until the middle of January.

Then, by what seemed like either sheer luck or divine intervention, I stumbled upon a school in Florida offering a fast-track program with an available slot in mid-October.

When I inquired whether it was feasible to obtain the “add-on” multi-engine certification within a week, they assured me it was possible, albeit with an intense schedule ahead.

I consider myself quite driven and resilient, so I wasted no time in signing an agreement with them, purchasing tickets, arranging for transportation, and securing accommodation in the area.

With everything set up, there wasn’t much else to do until my arrival.

Upon reaching the destination on the first morning, I obtained my high-performance rating before noon. The very same afternoon, we dove straight into multi-training.

For the following four days, I dedicated over 8 hours each day to training in a multi-engine aircraft. We conducted 7-8 stalls daily, frequently simulating engine failures. Additionally, I executed over 50 landings and immersed myself in extensive ground school sessions to ensure readiness for the exam.

It’s worth noting that during this period, my team back home exhibited outstanding performance in managing the business. After wrapping up the day’s training, I would head straight home, prepare dinner, and then delve into work tasks until well past 10 p.m., catching up on everything I missed.

Furthermore, I would rise at 4-5 am to study for the upcoming day’s lessons and finalize pending work matters.

Jenna took charge of our bustling household throughout the entire week. She’s an incredible person and an outstanding wife. I feel incredibly fortunate to have her as my partner in every aspect of my life. Her unwavering support, along with the support from our kids, has been truly remarkable.

To put it mildly, it was an exhausting week.

Once, while flying out to inspect the ocean, the instructor deliberately shut off the fuel to one engine. I immediately detected the alteration and began troubleshooting. Upon realizing the fuel was off, I promptly inquired whether she preferred me to restart the engine or shut it down completely.

Her response was affirmative: “You handled it excellently; you can restart it.”

Just two days before the check ride, my initial examiner contacted the school, stating he was unwell and unable to conduct any examinations.

In response, they reached out to their network and managed to secure a replacement examiner in another city. This individual turned out to be an exceptional corporate pilot responsible for flying the New York Yankees. He served as their primary pilot.

While performing the maneuvers during the check ride, I was nearing completion. We were preparing to land and conclude the test when a minor issue arose with our landing gear.

Ideally, we should have observed three green lights, but we only saw two. I followed protocol precisely and thoroughly checked everything. Subsequently, we made the decision to conduct a flyby of the tower, allowing them to inspect the gear and confirm if all three wheels were down.

As we passed by, they confirmed that it appeared all three wheels were down. Therefore, we opted to proceed with the landing.

The descent was remarkably smooth, resulting in what was likely the smoothest landing I’ve ever experienced. We gracefully touched down on the runway, gently lowering our noses.

Thankfully, the landing gear held up. As we taxied towards the parking spot, we took the corners cautiously, as the examiner cautioned that if the gear were to fail, it would likely happen during the turns.

After parking, we conducted a thorough inspection of the gear and concluded it was secure and safe for flight. However, during the flight back home, we intentionally kept the gear down.

I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support system at home and for everything Jenna has done to make this journey possible. She is the ideal partner for me, and I feel incredibly blessed by God to have her in my life.

Ultimately, I’ve come to understand some of the reasons why God intervened in my initial plans.

  1. Perseverance leads to achievement; where there’s a will, there’s a way.
  2.  You can inspire others to improve, but you can’t force them to make the right choices. While you can lend a hand, individuals must have the desire to progress to the next level.
  3.  Sometimes, slowing down is the wisest course of action. Rushing often leads to oversight and vulnerability.
  4. Most importantly, my appreciation for the multi-engine plane has significantly increased compared to if I had obtained my certification immediately. I now understand its capabilities and the importance of vigilance. Speed amplifies the pace of events, necessitating heightened awareness.
  5. Place your trust in God’s plan; every action has a purpose. Trust Him with everything, and He will provide.
  6. A strong support system is indispensable for success. Jenna and the kids’ encouragement was invaluable, and I couldn’t have achieved it without them. Never underestimate the importance of your support network.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Embracing God’s Big Plans for Your Life“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

What Nobody Tells You About Being An Entrepreneur

What Nobody Tells You About Being an Entrepreneur

What Nobody Tells You About Being an Entrepreneur

One aspect of entrepreneurship that nobody ever fully conveyed to me before embarking on this journey is the sheer magnitude of the work involved.

Let me share with you my routine: I rise promptly between 4 and 4:30 every morning and dive straight into my tasks. As the rest of the household awakens, I pause to connect with them briefly. Then it’s back to work until late in the afternoon. Another pause follows this one for quality time with my family, which I cherish as the most crucial aspect of life. After that, I tackled a bit more work before retiring for the night.

What’s striking is how much quicker my mind operates now compared to before. Back when I worked for others, my mornings revolved around mundane thoughts like breakfast plans and packing lunch. Throughout the day, my mind wandered to personal matters and dreams for the future. Evenings were filled with passive activities like watching TV and pondering my children’s futures.

But now, my thoughts are consumed by business strategies, maintaining spiritual connection, and ensuring the well-being of both my own family and those in our employ. I’m constantly assessing daily tasks and long-term goals, accompanied by a hint of anxiety about possibly forgetting something crucial or disappointing clients. And all this mental activity begins before I even reach for my morning coffee.

Recently, during a meeting with new clients, my colleague Sam, who has worked alongside me for over a year, expressed his wonder at my approach. After the meeting, we had a brief chat, and as I was leaving, he asked me, “How do you manage it all?”

“What do you mean?” I asked.
“How do you manage to keep your mind from exploding? I could practically see the gears turning in your head the entire duration of the meeting. And as soon as it concluded, you whipped out your phone and started jotting down notes like a man possessed for a good 3 to 5 minutes. Your brain must be operating at a million miles an hour compared to mine!”
Firstly, my brain isn’t exactly quick. If anything, it moves slower than molasses in the dead of winter in Alaska! That’s slow, for sure. laughs
He effortlessly retained the ideas we generated during that single meeting and immediately strategized on how we could alter our approach to better cater to our clients. He was also amazed by the swift action we took the very next day to implement these changes.

Being an entrepreneur or business owner isn’t solely about raking in loads of cash. It’s unequivocally about improving how we serve our community tomorrow compared to today. Unfortunately, many fail to grasp this concept. All they aspire to do is build a business, sell it for a fortune, and live a life of luxury. But that, in my eyes, doesn’t define a true entrepreneur. To me, an entrepreneur is someone who shoulders personal responsibility for a problem and goes above and beyond to devise a simpler solution for others to utilize.

Nobody warned me about the immense satisfaction I would derive from giving back to our clients. Lately, we’ve been gifting custom hand-drawn pictures printed on canvas to our clients, and the joy it brings me is indescribable.

Another unforeseen source of joy has been nurturing the growth of others and providing them with incredible learning opportunities. Leadership is undeniably challenging, and ensuring there’s enough capital in reserves for payroll can be stressful at times. However, the fulfillment I personally experience from working alongside an exceptional team outweighs every ounce of stress.

Right now, someone might be thinking, “You just enjoy bossing others around!” But the truth is, I despise dictating what others should do. What I truly relish is inviting them to contribute to a new project and witnessing their problem-solving skills in action. Initially, we’re all filled with trepidation when faced with something unfamiliar. However, the sheer delight I experience in observing someone overcome a daunting challenge is unparalleled. Their newfound confidence is truly remarkable.

Here’s the overarching lesson from this narrative: When you feel compelled to act, seize the moment! Don’t hesitate. The rewards far outweigh any discomfort. And remember, “pain” is merely an acronym:
P: Pleasure
A: After
I: Initial
N: Nightmare

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Encouragement in Daily Life: Small Acts, Big Effects” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

One aspect of entrepreneurship that nobody ever fully conveyed to me before embarking on this journey is the sheer magnitude of work involved.

Let me share with you my routine: I rise promptly between 4 and 4:30 every morning and dive straight into my tasks. As the rest of the household awakens, I pause to connect with them briefly. Then it’s back to work until late in the afternoon. Another pause follows this one for quality time with my family, which I cherish as the most crucial aspect of life. After that, I tackled a bit more work before retiring for the night.

What’s striking is how much quicker my mind operates now compared to before. Back when I worked for others, my mornings revolved around mundane thoughts like breakfast plans and packing lunch. Throughout the day, my mind wandered to personal matters and dreams for the future. Evenings were filled with passive activities like watching TV and pondering my children’s futures.

But now, my thoughts are consumed by business strategies, maintaining spiritual connection, and ensuring the well-being of both my own family and those in our employ. I’m constantly assessing daily tasks and long-term goals, accompanied by a hint of anxiety about possibly forgetting something crucial or disappointing clients. And all this mental activity begins before I even reach for my morning coffee.

Recently, during a meeting with new clients, my colleague Sam, who has worked alongside me for over a year, expressed his wonder at my approach. After the meeting, we had a brief chat, and as I was leaving, he asked me, “How do you manage it all?”

“What do you mean?” I asked.
“How do you manage to keep your mind from exploding? I could practically see the gears turning in your head the entire duration of the meeting. And as soon as it concluded, you whipped out your phone and started jotting down notes like a man possessed for a good 3 to 5 minutes. Your brain must be operating at a million miles an hour compared to mine!”
Firstly, my brain isn’t exactly quick. If anything, it moves slower than molasses in the dead of winter in Alaska! That’s slow, for sure. laughs
He effortlessly retained the ideas we generated during that single meeting and immediately strategized on how we could alter our approach to better cater to our clients. He was also amazed by the swift action we took the very next day to implement these changes.

Being an entrepreneur or business owner isn’t solely about raking in loads of cash. It’s unequivocally about improving how we serve our community tomorrow compared to today. Unfortunately, many fail to grasp this concept. All they aspire to do is build a business, sell it for a fortune, and live a life of luxury. But that, in my eyes, doesn’t define a true entrepreneur. To me, an entrepreneur is someone who shoulders personal responsibility for a problem and goes above and beyond to devise a simpler solution for others to utilize.

Nobody warned me about the immense satisfaction I would derive from giving back to our clients. Lately, we’ve been gifting custom hand-drawn pictures printed on canvas to our clients, and the joy it brings me is indescribable.

Another unforeseen source of joy has been nurturing the growth of others and providing them with incredible learning opportunities. Leadership is undeniably challenging, and ensuring there’s enough capital in reserves for payroll can be stressful at times. However, the fulfillment I personally experience from working alongside an exceptional team outweighs every ounce of stress.

Right now, someone might be thinking, “You just enjoy bossing others around!” But the truth is, I despise dictating what others should do. What I truly relish is inviting them to contribute to a new project and witnessing their problem-solving skills in action. Initially, we’re all filled with trepidation when faced with something unfamiliar. However, the sheer delight I experience in observing someone overcome a daunting challenge is unparalleled. Their newfound confidence is truly remarkable.

Here’s the overarching lesson from this narrative: When you feel compelled to take action, seize the moment! Don’t hesitate. The rewards far outweigh any discomfort. And remember, “pain” is merely an acronym:
P: Pleasure
A: After
I: Initial
N: Nightmare

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Encouragement in Daily Life: Small Acts, Big Effects” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

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