Last month marked the third anniversary of my selling CSP Information Group. Time seems to fly when you start collecting Social Security checks and become eligible for AARP senior discounts. Candidly, I feel younger and more energized today than I can recall. (OK, my annual Mayo Clinic visit does bring me back to reality).
Mitch Morrison asked if I would write about what I’ve been doing since I turned over the reins to Mike Wood Jr. Although I always enjoyed writing my monthly CSP column, putting my name onto hundreds of words that would be judged by about 200,000 readers added stress to my life. But it made me ask, “What value can I offer?”
In the past 36 months, I have traveled to South America and Spain, including a 500-mile walk of the Camino de Santiago. I have crossed America in an RV. I started two new businesses, including one with Jim Fiene; we have 16 7-Eleven franchises in Wisconsin. The other, Business Accelerator Team, just began with industry veterans David Nelson and Kay Segal. We share the same goal: to accelerate knowledge growth and thus business growth.
I also spent two years involved with a personal growth organization, gaining a new appreciation for love and life. I have spent quality time with my love and my family, including my eight grandchildren, lost 8 pounds and ran a few marathons.
I am, in an understatement, not one to let time pass by me.
Time is a gift, and this new stage of life has allowed me to expand my pursuits, observations and knowledge. So what have I learned that might be of value to you? In a word: balance. Categorize your life under four headings: emotional, mental, spiritual and physical. Of course there are concrete daily metrics such as financials, career and goals, but I suggest putting those details under one of my big four categories.
Words to Live By
We live most of our lives off-balance. Too often, we disregard our physical health, our spiritual callings and our family time. And you could say I have not always lived as I now preach. That’s why I’m sharing my observations. That said, work isn’t necessarily a necessity. It can and, ideally, should represent a part of who you are, as well as a source of passion and creativity.
For one, identify mentors in your life. I suggest three, but any number you deem best works too. It is important to have people you respect who are open with their wisdom and counsel. One of my most important mentors is Drayton McLane, a man who doesn’t know the word “quit.”
I confess that some of the ideas I present to you are taken from Drayton. I still reflect on what he told me 20 years ago when we became partners. “Paul, there are only three things we need to do in business: Don’t break the law, do not compromise your values and integrity, and make a profit,” he said.
Another saying I have found particularly meaningful: “When you rest, you rust.” I translated that message into my day-to-day goal setting. Keep life in balance, but realize that life also offers many new and wonderful things to do and explore.
When people ask me what they should do in business or with their lives, I respond with a question: What are you passionate about? Follow that passion.
Another important quote comes from my beloved friend Bill Douglass: “It takes a village.” Personal success is generated in large part from the quality of those you associate with. Don’t live life in a vacuum. Appreciate the role you can play for others and what others can—and have—played for you.
Finally, “You’re never too old to be what you want to be.” For many, who we want to be will evolve over time. Drayton spins this a bit differently: “When you are comfortable, you are not growing. Move out of your comfort zone.” I did, not easily, but hey, no pain, no gain.
The best leaders put people ahead of balance sheets. I have been consulting with NRC Realty Corp. on some M&A deals. The common concern I’ve found from owners is not only about money—it’s very much about what will happen to the people, the team they care about, once the business is sold.
Final Thoughts
Above all else, I would offer you two other powerful words: forgiveness and gratitude. One does not have to be a Catholic to agree that Pope Francis is having a profound influence. He has committed the church to an ethos of mercy and compassion and has published nearly 10,000 words on these essential values.
Having a bad day? Stress is too great? Instead of taking drugs or throwing a tantrum, get out a piece of paper and a pen, and let gratitude flow. I guarantee the list will overwhelm whatever troubles you. Keep that sheet and look back on it.
I acknowledge that for me, work is part of my balanced life. I like innovating, building, mentoring and being a part of success. Retirement from one career should be a springboard for a new round of excitement and growth.
I’d love to hear what’s inspiring you. You can find me at paulreuter@thebateam.com.
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