Knowledge. Wow! Some say, “Knowledge is power“. Ever heard that phrase?
Next question, “Do you believe it’s true”?
I do, mostly. However, just knowing is not enough for me.
And by the way, you can gain knowledge at parties, the Internet, and simply through experience.
Way more important though, is applying the knowledge. Ya with me?
On July 4th, at a friends party, I spoke with a retired small business owner. What got us talking was my question, “Do you run”? He certainly didn’t look 65 to me. Not even close.
Anyway, I got some great small business tips from him:
- Number one, most important – be passionate about what you do
- Build long-term relationships; never burn any bridges
- Deliver POS – Positively Outrageous Service
I asked another question, “I’ve heard that you either run your business or it runs you. What do think of that”?
This led to a final, and critical message –Be prepared to work your life around your business.
In my 35 years paying taxes, I’ve worked in organizations where the leader said, “Run it like it’s your own business”. Heck, I used to try to inspire my direct reports with the exact same message.
It sure looks good on paper doesn’t it? “Run it like it’s yours”. Until I did the math.
Searching the Internet for validation, I found various studies conclude anywhere from 50% to 80% of start-up businesses disappear within five years, with the majority within two years.
I paused. Reflected on the significance. And then acted on this knowledge in a dramatically different way than ever before, 18 months ago.
And to my surprise and delight, it’s made me a significantly better professional speaker.
Carpe diem, jungle jeff 🙂
