Why work multiple businesses / jobs?

 

Sometimes people ask me - why do you make yourself so busy? I do leadership training and coaching as my main business. I also run a board game design and publishing studio. I am actively involved in BNI Lighthouse, a community of business leaders. People ask me - doesn't this tire you out?  

It does exactly the opposite. When I choose what I want to work on, I am thrilled. It is certainly challenging to manage my time and resources, but by forcing myself to prioritise, I am able to focus on the most rewarding and meaningful work. When I get stuck with problems in one business, switching to work on another helps me recharge, and I can later come back with a fresh mind. 

I'm having fun. Are you having fun? 

Take care of your people, and they will take care of your business

 

I have seen many business leaders fail at this. They focus on the business targets, the sales numbers, the P&L, the tasks. Now these are important indeed, but when business leaders forget why companies are formed, it is no wonder their companies do not perform. Companies are meant to bring PEOPLE together, not tasks. If we cannot give our people a conducive, respectful and supportive environment, how can we expect them to perform well?

Why I'd rather do business with a client paying me less

 

Imagine this scenario. Your price is 8000. One buyer can afford 10000, but wants to haggle down to 7500. Another buyer only has a budget of 6000, but is willing to compensate by working together with you and taking on some of the tasks themselves. Which client would you prefer? I pick the latter, which may not really make business sense. I do this because I'd rather work with people who appreciate and value you, and care about your interest. I'm happier making 6000 than 7500. 

Value is not all about money. 

It's not fair!

 

In the workplace, how often do you hear the complaint "Why should I work so hard when others are just cruising?"  "Why should I work so hard when I'm just an employee?" 

The truth is, if we work hard only because others around us are working hard, or only because we have no choice when we are the boss, then we are not going to enjoy our work. 

The best reason to work hard is you take pride in your work, and you are making yourself valuable. You are working hard for yourself. That's something people cannot take away from you.