Show Notes:

Scaling up vs. staying afloat. “Working in the business is about the present. It involves the day-to-day tasks like handling client cases, running payroll, and responding to emails. It’s necessary for the business to function on a daily basis. Working on the business, however, is about the future. It involves strategic thinking, planning, and making decisions that will impact the long-term growth and success of the firm. You need to step back and focus on hiring the right people, improving systems, and developing your team. If you never take the time to work on your business, you’ll find it hard to grow and scale.”

Clarity + Accountability = Coaching. “Find the person who aligns with your values and has solved the types of challenges you are encountering. The best types of coaches help you level up by asking the right questions and providing clarity. They don’t just give you the answers; they help you think critically and make better decisions. We’ve had multiple coaches over the years, and it’s been one of the single best investments we’ve ever made. The right coach can help you navigate challenges, hold you accountable, and provide the guidance you need to grow your firm.”

All in or all out. “When you start a business, you are not signing up for a normal-ass life. You have to go all-in and be committed, especially in the early stages. The idea of balancing work and personal life is a myth when you’re just starting out. You have to put in the sweat equity and make sacrifices. If you’re not willing to do that, you’re setting yourself up for a lifetime of suffering. Remove the word ‘balance’ from your vocabulary and understand that success demands an all-in mentality.”

Plan today to succeed tomorrow. “Strategic planning is crucial for the long-term success of your firm. You need to take time to work on your business and think about your vision for the future. This might involve hiring the right people, leveraging technology, and improving your systems. It’s not about working harder, but working smarter and making strategic decisions that will help you grow. Dedicate specific days or times to focus on strategic planning and make it a priority.”

Outwork, outlast, outperform. “The only way you can compete early on when you don’t have the resources is with your time. You have to put in the hours and be willing to make sacrifices. If you’re committed to growing your firm, you might have to wake up earlier, stay up later, and work weekends. This sweat equity is what will set you apart from your competitors who may have more resources but are not willing to put in the same level of effort. Over time, as you grow and start to build resources, you can then begin to leverage other advantages — but initially, your time and effort are your most valuable assets.”