"Stop chasing the money and start chasing the passion."
– Tony Hsieh
Ten Things I Believe About Business
1What You Want to Sell is Rarely What Others Want to Buy
Over 500,000 people decide to become entrepreneurs every single month. Yet 80% of them will fail. Why? Because most people are more concerned with the desire to start a business, than the desire to solve problems.
2Making Money Does Not Come From Hard Work or Hustle
I get it, that's what we were all taught in school. But school teaches us to be employees, not entrepreneurs. Profitable entrepreneurs are doing two things, reaching more people, and solving more problems. Their revenue is equal to the value they deliver in the marketplace, not their "effort."
3Good Ideas and Opportunities are Not Scarce
Entrepreneurs know that ideas are a dime a dozen. And those that accomplish more have mastered the "Art of Saying NO!"
4Tactics Change, Principles do Not
Every month, there's a new tool, technology platform, or trick that sends everyone into a frenzy. Most people struggle to keep up in the digital age because everything changes at the speed of light. The truth is, the principles of influence, communication, buying behavior and selling never change. Master those, and let everyone else chase the latest shiny object.
5No Matter What Business You're in, You're in the Business of Marketing
Most people get into business to focus on their craft, i.e. practicing law, personal training, making tacos etc. The reality is, every business owner must master marketing first. Because no matter how great your product or service is, it will never sell itself.
6Structure is the Path to More Freedom
Creating a systems-dependent business with processes and SOP's is not sexy, but the freedom it gives you is! The more structure you have inside your business, the more freedom you have in your life.
7There is No Competition
...only a limited perspective. To think there is a "fixed pie" available in the marketplace that is being gobbled up by your competitors is an illusion. A rising tide lifts all ships. And collaboration over competition wins. Also, remember…most people simply never execute.
8You Can't Do It Alone, So Why Try?
Today, there's just too much to do, and only so many hours in a day. You can't be great at what you do, if you're doing it all alone. But the resources available to hire independent contractors, automate or delegate makes it easier than ever before to attract the right people to support your vision.
9Your Happiness is Far More Important Than Money
If you're not happy doing what you're doing... don't do it.
10It's All About Helping Others
If you want more "passion," help people. If you need a "why," help people. If you're in a funk, a rut or a plateau, it's because you've forgotten what we're all here to do: Make a difference in someone else's life. When you remember that, you'll become unstoppable.
