Hi Reader, Even the best systems can fall apart when life throws you a curveball. Maybe your schedule changes, new priorities emerge, or your original plan doesn’t fit anymore. That’s okay. Adjusting doesn’t mean you failed—it means you’re paying attention. Think of it as routine maintenance. Just like a car needs an oil change, your systems need check-ins and tweaks. For example, when my kids started school this fall, my morning routine fell apart. I wanted to be present—helping them get ready and taking them to school—which was wonderful. But I also tried to squeeze everything I used to do in the morning into a much tighter window. It wasn’t sustainable. I had to step back and adjust. I started waking up earlier, simplifying my morning ritual, and setting more realistic expectations for myself. I was reminded that routines should serve us, not the other way around. Ask yourself:
Adapting isn’t giving up; it’s evolving to stay on track. Flexibility, paired with intention, is a superpower. Until next time, Michael
Michael Schefman | 321 Liftoff Copyright © 2024 by 321 Liftoff LLC |
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...