This Changed My Life-Curating My Own Personal Board of Directors

“Are you an entrepreneur or self-improver looking to maximize your potential and tap into unseen resources for success? You’re not alone. Having a personal board of directors can be one of the greatest catalysts for growth, truly monumentalizing both business and life goals. Curating a board that provides invaluable support, insight, guidance, and direction is paramount if you want to level up from where you are now. In this article, we will discuss why creating a personal board of directors is essential, along with steps on how to make it happen. So read on and discover the power behind leveraging these valuable relationships as you take your next big step forward!

I was 28 years old, having just purchased my first business. I found myself in a town where I knew not a soul, save for my wife and children. Most of my employees thought I was young, ignorant, and had no business owning the company they worked for.

I knew bold moves were necessary. Nothing is bolder than firing an employee who had been with the firm for 10 years, yet that’s exactly what I was about to do. This particular employee was grumpy, spiteful, performed poorly, and brought a negative atmosphere to the entire office. However, given my less-than-stellar financial position, I had to be extremely cautious with every decision I made.

Shortly after I asked her to seek opportunities elsewhere, she stormed into our office workroom where five employees were gathered.

“Well, Jason just told me to pack up my things and get out of here.”

I followed directly behind her and said, “That’s not at all what happened. If any of you have questions, feel free to stop by my office, and I’ll be happy to speak with you.”

It was then that my highest-performing salesperson looked up and said, “Well, Jason, if she’s leaving, I guess I’ll have to go too.”

My heart sank. What should I do? I was already hanging by a financial thread. I had to call her bluff.

“Well, I’m sorry to hear that. I wish you the best. I’m sure our paths will cross again someday.”

I then went to my office, put my face in my hands, and prayed.

“God, I trust you. I’ve just lost my top salesperson, but I know you will provide.”

Shortly after, the top performer called me in tears, asking if she could change her mind.

“Of course, you can,” I replied. I acted cool, but inside, I was breathing a desperate sigh of relief.

I got lucky in this situation, but the reality is I needed help. I needed someone older than me to provide advice and wisdom. We all do. I went through ten years of owning this first business with very few mentors. Instead, I slayed every dragon alone. This meant that sometimes, instead of slaying dragons, I was like Don Quixote, slaying windmills.

It is of utmost importance that if we truly want to pursue excellence, we seek those who exude excellence. We need to find mentors, both physical and virtual, to guide us. No one is bright enough to fully excel in a vacuum. We all need help. Besides, why wouldn’t you tap into the endless reservoir of wisdom that exists for the taking? That’s what today’s episode is all about.”