Borrow My Mistakes

Borrow My Mistakes.

Borrow My Millions.

Borrow My Time.

Let’s talk about mistakes. Not the “I wore mismatched socks to an important meeting” kind of mistakes, but the “I just lost a small fortune because I didn’t know any better” kind.

Believe me, I’ve had my fair share. But here’s the kicker: every single one of those mistakes was a stepping stone to where I am today. And now, I want to lend you my experience – let’s call it borrowing my mistakes – so you can skip the expensive lessons and get further, faster.

My Costly Lessons (So You Don’t Have to Pay)

Real Life

The Overzealous Investor

Early in my real estate career, I jumped on every “hot” property that came my way. The result? A portfolio full of problematic properties and a drained bank account. I once bought a building that looked perfect on paper. The price was right, the location was promising, and the seller was eager. But I didn’t dig deep enough. Hidden beneath the surface were foundation issues that cost me tens of thousands to repair. How about a building that was supposed to have ONE parcel number but had two…that same building…each had a different zoning…The lesson? Due diligence isn't optional. It’s essential. Also, question the professionals. They do NOT have all the answers…Research thoroughly, understand the market, and don’t rush into deals. Take the time to get inspections, consult with experts, and ensure every deal aligns with your long-term strategy.

The Solopreneur Syndrome

For years, I wore all the hats. I was the CEO, the accountant, the marketer, and the janitor. Burnout came knocking pretty quickly. I remember a particularly brutal week where I was managing tenant issues, negotiating deals, and trying to launch a marketing campaign all at once. I was exhausted, and my business suffered because I was stretched too thin. The lesson here is simple: delegate. Build a team. Leverage other people's strengths so you can focus on what you do best. Whether it’s hiring an assistant, outsourcing your bookkeeping, or bringing on a partner, recognize that you can't do it all and do it well.

Ignoring the Importance of Mentorship

I used to think I could figure it all out on my own. Spoiler alert: I couldn't. It wasn’t until I sought out mentors that I saw exponential growth. Their guidance helped me avoid pitfalls and seize opportunities I would have otherwise missed. I borrowed their mistakes, their millions and bought TIME. I vividly remember a conversation with a mentor who saved me from making a disastrous investment by pointing out market trends I hadn’t considered. Their experience was like a crystal ball, showing me a future I couldn’t see on my own. The takeaway? Seek out those who have walked the path before you. Their insights are invaluable and can save you from costly mistakes.

How to Leverage My Experience

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions – lots of them. Learn from those who have been in your shoes. It’s the fastest way to gain wisdom without the hefty price tag. When I first started seeking advice, I asked questions about everything – from negotiating tactics to market analysis. The answers I received not only educated me but also saved me from making uninformed decisions. Be curious, be relentless in your pursuit of knowledge, and don’t be shy about seeking guidance.

Implement Feedback

Criticism can be tough to swallow, but it's invaluable. Listen to feedback, adjust your approach, and watch your business (and personal growth) skyrocket. Early in my career, I presented a business plan to a seasoned investor, only to have it torn apart. It stung, but I took their feedback seriously, revised my plan, and it led to one of my most successful ventures. Embrace constructive criticism as a tool for growth rather than a personal attack. It’s through this process that you refine your strategies and improve your outcomes.

Take Ownership

Ultimately, your success or failure comes down to you. Own your decisions, your mistakes, and your triumphs. This mindset shift is a game changer in both business and life. I used to blame market conditions or bad luck for my setbacks. It wasn’t until I took full ownership of my actions and their consequences that I began to see real progress. When you hold yourself accountable, you empower yourself to make changes and drive your success. This doesn’t mean you won’t face challenges, but it means you’ll be better equipped to overcome them.

Action Items:

Schedule a Mentor Meeting

Find someone whose path you admire and ask for their time. Be prepared with specific questions and be ready to listen. Mentorship can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a formal relationship or a series of informal chats, the insights you gain can be invaluable. Reach out to industry leaders, successful entrepreneurs, or even peers who have achieved what you aspire to. Their experiences can provide a roadmap to success and help you avoid common pitfalls. Don’t be afraid to invest in YOURSELF. I promise it’s the best investment you’ll ever make!

Create a Delegation List

Identify tasks that drain your time and energy and delegate them. Focus on high-impact activities that move the needle in your business. Start by listing all your daily tasks and categorizing them by importance and the skills required. Then, delegate the tasks that don’t require your specific expertise. This could mean hiring a virtual assistant, partnering with a freelancer, or even automating processes with technology. By freeing up your time, you can focus on strategic growth and innovation.

Set a Personal Accountability Goal

Commit to one area where you will take full ownership this month. Track your progress and reflect on the outcomes. Choose a specific goal – whether it’s improving a skill, increasing your sales, or enhancing your customer service. Develop a plan, set milestones, and hold yourself accountable. Review your progress regularly, adjust your strategies as needed, and celebrate your achievements. This practice not only drives results but also builds a habit of accountability that can transform your approach to both business and personal growth.

Borrow my mistakes, skip losing millions, and pave a smoother path to success. Let’s take ownership of our lives and businesses together.