How to Deliver Higher Returns
How to Deliver Higher Returns
How can business owners optimize internal processes for dynamic environments?
I took a psychological test years ago in the water treatment industry, which lasted about two hours. Afterward, I was called into the office by the test administrators, who questioned if I had tailored my answers to what they wanted to hear. They labeled me as "unconsciously competent," a term I wasn't familiar with, meaning things naturally come to me. I believe it's due to moving around a lot as a child.
My parents divorced when I was 13, and even before that, we had moved multiple times. After the divorce, my mother remarried twice to Air Force personnel, and I joined the Navy. I've lived in 15 states and three times as many cities, learning to adapt and think on my feet. This background helped me excel in sales because I had to continually make new friends. Unlike those who grew up in the same place with a stable group of friends and consistent habits, my varied experiences forced me to develop internal processes.
Each day, I start by catching up on industry news and then tackle a task list. I write down my pressing tasks, weekly goals, monthly goals, and quarterly goals. Throughout the day, I manage around 500 to thousand communications across emails, calls, texts, and social media messages. I keep a notepad for tasks, and anything unfinished moves to the next day.
What strategies can business owners use to leverage networks for financial stability?
When you come from nothing, you learn to be resourceful and frugal. I've always relied on my relationships, which I value more than any bank account. My network is robust; people to whom I've provided value for years would support me if I needed to start over. Even if I lost everything, including my business and clients, I could sell the valuable assets I own outright, like the antique furniture from the 1700s and 1800s in my home, which has appreciated in value. This would provide stability to rebuild. Regarding home ownership, I advise against paying off your house. Keeping a mortgage offers tax deductions and ensures the mortgage company doesn't want the house back if it's fully leveraged. Often, mortgage rates are so low that they're below inflation rates, practically making it free money. By maintaining leverage, you ensure financial flexibility. If I lost everything, I'd tap into my network to get back on my feet without letting the loss destroy me. It's crucial to remember that it's just material possessions; what truly matters is your health and family.
*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.*
