As we approach the close of the first third in our 30 Lessons Learned in 30 Years series, I’ve got 3 reflections to share with you which are deeply personal as well as foundational as I think back over the last few decades.
💡 Lesson 8: You will make mistakes and poor decisions. The key is to learn from them.
You will make mistakes and poor decisions along the way. I can think half a dozen (at least) choices I made that seemed right at the time but ultimately proved to be time sucks and energy drains, not to mention poor investments.
But I learned from each one, taking time every Quarter—deliberately and consistently—to review, recalibrate and make better decisions going foward.
Quarterly reviews weren’t just a practice—they were essential. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or leading a team, block the time. Reflect intentionally. Build forward with greater clarity.
Mistakes are inevitable. Growth is optional.
💡 Lesson 9: Know why you started your business and live into it.
In the early years of my business, I intentionally used the flexibility I had created to spend time with my children. That choice shaped the trajectory of my life and business. I may not have scaled aggressively at first, but I gained something far more valuable: presence, connection, and time well spent.
If you’re building a business, don’t forget what drove you to start in the first place. Your priorities—when honored—will shape the legacy you leave.
💡 Lesson 10: Prioritize Your Own Self-Care
This one is simple: you are no good to your team, your clients, your business, or your family if you’re exhausted.
Through all of the ups and downs, make sure to prioritize your own self-care. Find places to rejuvenate and renew, take vacations, spend time with your significant other, pay yourself an adequate and hopefully a market-based wage. Don’t sacrifice your health and well-being in the pursuit of a dream, no matter how compelling it is.
Take the time to restore and rejuvenate. Burnout is not strategy—it’s a liability.
Tags: Enlightened Leaders, Leadership Development for Small Business, Leadership Development in Philadelphia, Overcoming small business challenges