Starting a business is exciting and ambiguous – and that’s the fun. It’s a time of possibility, experimentation, imagination, and showing the world what you can do. But, it can also feel slow, frustrating, and full of traps and distractions, leaving potential entrepreneurs to question their self-worth and to wonder why they started in the first place. As a small business coach, I’ll help you cultivate an entrepreneur’s mindset, so you can start and grow your businesses with confidence and step boldly into the role of business owner. Subscribe to get access to weekly tips, small business interviews, and more.
📚 Lessons From My Favorite Reads of 2024
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Hi Reader, With 2024 in the rearview mirror, I’ve been reflecting on the books 📚that influenced me the most last year. Here are three that reshaped how I think about life, work, and leadership: 1. "Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout" by Cal NewportSlow Productivity emphasizes that great things take time. In a world obsessed with speed, rushing often leads to mistakes and burnout. It reminded me that sustainable progress beats hurried effort every time, which is something I seem to forget at least once each quarter when I get caught up in my work. 2. "The Creative Act: A Way of Being" by Rick RubinThe Creative Act is meditative exploration of creativity and the process of bringing ideas to life by the famed music producer, Rick Rubin. The audiobook is a must-listen – it feels like sitting down with a wise mentor. Rubin’s approach to creativity helped me embrace a more steady tempo rather than trying to churn out too much too fast. 3. “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead & Win" by Jocko Willink and Leif BabinExtreme Ownership challenged me to think expansively about my circle of control. If something impacts the mission, it’s my responsibility to influence it. That mindset shift has been transformative for me, helping me add value in new ways, like ensuring I set people up for success when delegating work or thinking ahead to imagine obstacles rather then leaving them to chance. Until next time, Michael
Michael Schefman | 321 Liftoff Copyright © 2024 by 321 Liftoff LLC |
Michel Schefman, 321 Liftoff
Starting a business is exciting and ambiguous – and that’s the fun. It’s a time of possibility, experimentation, imagination, and showing the world what you can do. But, it can also feel slow, frustrating, and full of traps and distractions, leaving potential entrepreneurs to question their self-worth and to wonder why they started in the first place. As a small business coach, I’ll help you cultivate an entrepreneur’s mindset, so you can start and grow your businesses with confidence and step boldly into the role of business owner. Subscribe to get access to weekly tips, small business interviews, and more.
Hi Reader, We’ve all seen the flashy promises: “Follow these five steps and watch your business skyrocket!” or “My secret formula will make you rich overnight!” Here’s the truth: sustainable success isn’t built on shortcuts. It’s built on staying alert, making smart decisions, and doing the work. That doesn’t mean opportunities aren’t out there – they are! But the key is to approach them with discernment – the ability to judge well and distinguish between what’s worth pursuing and what isn’t....
Hi Reader, Michael Porter – the godfather of business strategy said: “the essence of strategy is choosing what not to do.” He’s saying that you need to do a few things really well and outsource the rest. You don’t want to overextend yourself. You need to stay focused. But, it’s deeper than that. He’s also talking about building a strategic, competitive advantage over other players in your field. What are those things that you’re known for – that only you can do? For example, if you make great...
Hi Reader, I recently re-listened to an episode of How I Built This with Guy Raz from last year. In this episode, Guy sits down with organizational psychologist, Adam Grant. This quote from Adam struck a chord: "The [entrepreneurs] who managed to have repeat success and bounce back—and forward—from failure are the ones who invest their egos in their future growth as opposed to their present comfort." It’s easy to protect your ego by retreating when you experience setbacks. But real growth...