An Epic Story of Entrepreneurship: 2 Business Owners, 1 Dream, and a Fork in the Road
Simon Ellson
“Head Down, Balls Up” to Business Success | Award-Winning Coach | Helping Owners Scale, Systemise & Sell on Their Terms
Hello, all you go-getters, aspiring magnates, and visionary leaders! It’s Your Coach Simon here, bringing you another slice of business wisdom with a dollop of dry humour on top. Today, we’ll take a deep dive into the lives of two entrepreneurs. One has a clear vision, while the other, well, let’s say he’s more of a rudderless ship. Grab your espresso, and let's jump in!
Business Owner A: Bob, The Visionary Dynamo
Bob is what we in the coaching industry like to call a "Visionary Dynamo". He’s not content to just coast along; he's like an F1 car in the pole position, roaring to go. With a well-defined 5-year and 10-year plan, Bob's not just playing the game; he's changing it.
The Master Plan
He wakes up each morning with an itinerary already set. Every action is a stepping stone towards the end game: a saleable, profitable enterprise that runs even in his absence. It's like he's constructed a business roller coaster that only goes up. He's leveraging every resource available, from state-of-the-art business software to personalized business coaching (Ahem, like me), to ensure every cog in his business machine is well-oiled and efficient.
Wealth Generation for Family
Bob’s enterprise isn’t just a business; it’s a legacy in the making. His children won't have to worry about student loans, and his family can look forward to not just annual vacations but a lifetime of financial security. This isn't an accident; it's by design.
The "Build-to-Sell" Mindset
He's operating from a 'Build-to-Sell' perspective. His business is an asset, not a glorified 9-to-5 job. He’s creating systems, setting up SOPs, and grooming successors. He understands that valuation is the name of the game, and he’s playing to win.
Business Owner B: Tim, The Eternal Drifter
Then there’s Tim. You know, the guy who’s been in business for years and never seems to get past the starting line? Tim's also Bob's lifelong friend and the polar opposite when it comes to entrepreneurial ambitions.
No Plan, No Gain
He's not so much sailing his ship as he is floating along, waiting for the tide to bring him good fortune. Tim's idea of planning is figuring out what’s for lunch. He's constantly busy, but as we all know, being busy is not the same as being productive.
Consequences on the Home Front
This aimlessness spills into his personal life. Family holidays are impromptu and rare. Saving for his children's education or even retirement is more of a 'cross-the-bridge-when-we-get-there' scenario. Stress is Tim’s uninvited guest at dinner every night.
Risk of Stagnation
While Bob's business is an evolving creature, adapting and expanding, Tim's business is like a pond that's slowly but surely turning into a swamp. No innovation, no scale, and let's be frank—no future. It's like he's stuck in the rugby maul of life, endlessly grappling but making no headway.
The Verdict: The Power of Purpose
So, why does Bob's approach create a symphony while Tim’s generates mere noise? Simple. It’s the power of purpose. Bob has integrated his life’s goals into his business plan. He's not just a business owner; he's a life architect. On the other hand, Tim is a lesson in the perils of aimlessness.
Let’s summarize it with a dash of F1 wisdom: In life, be more like the team owner who knows each lap, turn, and pit stop than the driver who’s just told where to go. Craft your legacy, your 'Team Bob,' if you will.
Remember, folks, if you feel you're leaning more toward Tim's side of the field, don't despair. The game's not over until the final whistle. And if you need a coach to guide you, you know where to find me.
Cheers to building empires,
Your Coach Simon ??
P.S. The great thing about life is that you can always change lanes. If you find yourself cruising along without direction, it's time to shift gears. Get in touch, and let's turbocharge your journey! ??
Managing Director at SME Advantage | UK Zoho Premium Partner
1 年Amazing blog Simon Ellson - love this ??
Helping the Solent's SMEs go from good to great ? Fractional Boardroom Advisors, MDs, NEDs and Senior Executives ? Proven results of business growth and transformation ?? Trusted business experts ?
1 年Poor old Tim, bumbling along and wondering why his business isn’t succeeding! Fail to plan etc. Great lessons Simon, but please choose a different name next time ??