Marrying Right Boosted My Success
Marrying Right Boosted My Success
How can married entrepreneurs apply the mastermind principle to their relationship?
My thoughts will probably reflect some ideas from Think and Grow Rich. If you enjoy what I’m about to share, it’s likely rooted in that book, particularly the mastermind principle. It describes two or more minds working in harmony, especially within the husband-and-wife dynamic. There’s a unique power in the balance of masculine and feminine energies when each person embraces their natural roles. Without knowing these concepts at first, Julie and I were living them. We were just trying to serve each other.
In our early years, we were both ambitious and full of life—essentially growing up together. We had some tough moments, not because divorce was ever on the table (we committed early on never to use that word), but because we were learning how to navigate life together. Our “learning opportunities,” as our marriage coaches call them, included the inevitable annoyances that arise when sharing a space with someone. I mean, Julie is still beautiful, but even small things can be annoying when you’re sharing life so closely.
Reflecting on those early lessons, I’ve implemented practices with our kids to help them understand how to share space and adjust to other people’s quirks. I don’t want them to be shocked when they get married and discover that their spouse does things differently. It’s a practical way to prepare them for life.
But the mastermind principle goes deeper than just practicalities. It’s about creating a partnership where Julie can fully embrace her feminine side—being creative, free-flowing, and excited about life. For me, it means having the freedom to take risks, pursue big goals, and provide for our family without feeling weighed down by unnecessary tension. That dynamic required me to create a safe environment for her, and she, in turn, has been an incredible support system. This doesn’t mean she doesn’t have her own ambitions. She excelled in school, became a top dental hygienist, and has always pursued her goals.
Our marriage operates in a more traditional sense, which works for us. I charge ahead, setting targets and conquering challenges for our family, while she supports and plays her role within that mission. Her support and energy have allowed me to be the best version of myself. Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without Julie’s consistent presence, energy, and encouragement. She’s been the cornerstone of everything I’ve done.
How can business owners apply strategic methods to find a life partner successfully?
I will provide you with a structured answer that might seem more business-oriented. I've advised mutual friends, including one specific individual, that despite his claims of wanting to be married, his actions suggest otherwise. In business, you clearly define what you need if you're seeking a new team member. Similarly, if you value finding a life partner, start by defining your ideal partner. However, it's not just about creating a list; it's about actively meeting people. I didn't use dating apps in the past as they weren't available, but today, I would recommend them. It's a numbers game—just like in sales. You might need to go on hundreds of dates to find the right person. During these dates, it’s crucial to engage deeply to assess compatibility. This involves personality assessments and asking pointed questions to determine if there's a natural connection. This isn't just about compatibility but also about feeling a strong pull towards the person, which I experienced when I first met Julie at 18. While some of this attraction might have been physical, it was more about the natural magnetism between our spirits. So, whether it’s through a systematic approach or trusting your gut, finding the right partner is about more than just going through the motions—it’s about connecting on a deeper level.
What strategies can enhance love and connection in marriage?
To begin, we must define love, which can have many interpretations. In the simplest terms, my relationship with my wife is unique compared to all others in my life. She differs from my mother, grandmother, siblings, and even my father, whom I met when I was 24. My children, too, hold a different place because she is my wife. There is a special element of care, service, and protection similar to those relationships, but also a distinct sexual energy unique to our marriage. This energy is a powerful force, as discussed in Think and Grow Rich. How do I engage with this energy? How do I continue to love and maximize our connection? Love is a choice. I chose to marry her, to care for her, and to provide for her out of duty. This commitment is one I willingly made and continue to honor.
How can married couples manage personal disagreements effectively?
One of my strengths is that I can easily let go of grudges. After a disagreement, a good night's sleep allows me to reset completely, as if it never happened. My partner, however, operates differently, which sometimes leads to challenges when she wants to discuss matters I consider resolved. We address this by having weekly meetings where we intentionally discuss how we've supported each other throughout the week. We even schedule intimate moments, which might seem unusual but necessary with young children. Despite these efforts, misunderstandings still occur. For instance, this month, there were a couple of instances where we simply missed connecting effectively, even with all our planning.
Why might some business owners prioritize family and legacy over maximizing wealth?
I believe I could be worth millions more if I hadn't married Julie. Some might think that contradicts my earlier statements about being more successful with her, but it doesn't. With Julie, I've become a different kind of successful. Without her, or with a different partner, I might have more money, but I wouldn't be the same person. I might have been entirely focused on wealth, potentially becoming a billionaire with a transient lifestyle, but that's not the success I value. Julie hasn't held me back; instead, she has grounded me and directed my efforts toward building a family, being a father, and investing in future generations. My vision of success isn't about being known as an internet guru but ensuring my descendants inherit knowledge and wealth. Success means leaving a legacy not just about wealth or fame but about making impactful contributions to my family and beyond. I aspire to one day reflect on my life and affirm that I was faithful to this vision.
*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.*
