The Hidden Cost of Procrastination (And How to Fix It)
Ryan Ray ??
Automate the Grind, Amplify the Growth I build DFY automations for companies doing between $500k and $5M
Five minutes. Five insights….and a simple business strategy
That’s all you need to make smarter business, career, and investing decisions today.
?? 1?? President Trump Announces New Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports
?? What Happened? President Donald Trump declared a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, effective Monday. This move has elicited varied global reactions, with financial markets initially appearing indifferent. However, significant concerns have emerged regarding potential adverse effects on various industries and economies, notably the UK steel sector, which fears severe repercussions. The FTSE 100 index reached a record high, driven by a surge in BP's shares following activist investor Elliott Investment Management's stake acquisition. U.S. steelmakers have also experienced share increases, anticipating advantages from elevated import prices. The European Union and Germany have pledged to retaliate if these tariffs are implemented. Additional apprehensions center on the tariffs' impact on global economic growth and inflation, with gold prices reaching all-time highs as investors seek safe havens amid the uncertainty.
?? Why It Matters: The imposition of these tariffs could disrupt international trade dynamics, potentially leading to increased production costs and strained relations with key allies. Industries reliant on steel and aluminum may face higher expenses, which could be passed on to consumers, thereby influencing inflation rates.
? Takeaway: Businesses should assess their supply chains for exposure to these tariffs and consider strategies to mitigate potential cost increases.
?? 2?? Major Companies Announce Significant Layoffs Amid Economic Pressures
?? What Happened? Numerous prominent companies across various sectors continue to enact significant layoffs and workforce reductions due to economic pressures and the rise of artificial intelligence. Among these are Boeing, planning to reduce 400 roles related to NASA's Artemis program, and Meta, which will eliminate more positions based on performance. Other companies announcing cuts include CNN, which will reduce its staff by 6% as it pivots to digital operations, and Starbucks, which will restructure in March. Additionally, Microsoft is also set to make reductions, focusing on underperforming employees, while BP aims to cut 4,700 employees to improve competitiveness. The widespread reductions reflect broader efforts to streamline operations and adapt to technological advancements.
?? Why It Matters: These layoffs underscore the challenges companies face in balancing operational efficiency with workforce management, especially amid technological advancements and economic fluctuations. The rise of artificial intelligence is prompting businesses to reassess their human resource needs, leading to significant workforce reductions.
? Takeaway: Employees should stay informed about industry trends and consider upskilling to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.
?? 3?? AMP Bank Introduces Numberless Debit Cards to Combat Fraud
?? What Happened? AMP Bank, in partnership with Mastercard, is launching numberless debit cards for small business and personal banking customers. These cards display no numbers on the front, with full card details accessible only via the bank’s mobile app. This initiative aims to reduce fraud and scams, enhancing security for users.
?? Why It Matters: The adoption of numberless debit cards represents a significant advancement in financial security. For small business owners, this innovation offers increased protection against fraud, allowing them to manage transactions with greater confidence.
? Takeaway: Small businesses should explore adopting advanced financial tools, such as numberless debit cards, to enhance security and protect against fraudulent activities.
?? 4?? Entrepreneurs Leverage TikTok Transparency to Revitalize Struggling Businesses
?? What Happened? Entrepreneurs are increasingly using TikTok to share candid accounts of their business challenges, leading to renewed customer engagement and support. By openly discussing setbacks, these small business owners foster empathy and trust among viewers, resulting in increased sales and brand loyalty.
?? Why It Matters: This trend underscores the power of authenticity in marketing. By embracing transparency, businesses can build stronger connections with their audience, turning potential failures into opportunities for growth.
? Takeaway: Small business owners should consider sharing authentic stories of their entrepreneurial journey on social media to enhance customer engagement and trust.
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But Wait, There’s More:
The Reality Check: You’re not lazy. You’re not unmotivated. But if you feel like you're always "preparing" and never executing, you’re stuck in something worse: Portcrastination—the illusion of progress without actual movement.
You tell yourself you need one more course, one more book, one more strategy session. But deep down, you already know what to do. You just aren’t doing it.
And here’s the brutal truth: the more time you spend preparing, the harder execution becomes.
But here's what everyone misses… The most successful people don’t wait to feel ready. They move forward while still figuring things out.
They know that action creates clarity, not the other way around.
Every day you spend "getting ready" is a day lost to someone else who took the leap.
The Insight Stack:
? Small win: Stop researching and set a hard deadline to take action. Give yourself 24 hours.
?? Medium insight: Your brain tricks you into thinking learning is doing. But nothing replaces execution.
?? Big revelation: The biggest risk isn’t failing—it’s waiting so long that someone else takes the opportunity that should have been yours.
The Status Upgrade: You’re not a "planner." You’re a builder. You don’t need more prep—you need momentum. The shift happens today.
Now ask yourself: What’s the one thing you’ve been overthinking? Take the first real step right now.