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An 86 Year Old Mechanic’s Business Lessons

DEC 2, 2024

An 86 Year Old Mechanic’s Business Lessons

During one of the training sessions I’ve conducted across the nation, I met an 86-year-old craftsman—a seasoned expert in his field. With over 45 years of experience, he has built a reputation for his skill. That’s a long time, and remarkably, he’s still healthy and active. As we spoke, he shared some wisdom from his journey. He acknowledged that while his career has spanned decades, his success rate has remained steady, albeit average. He reflected on how things had changed. Early in his career, there were few competitors in his field, and his expertise commanded a high demand and a substantial income. But over the years, trends shifted, competition grew, and his once-exclusive skills became less distinctive. At one point in his career, he had a pivotal realization. He began as an apprentice, learning his craft as an auto mechanic through hands-on experience. With dedication, he mastered the trade, even innovating and creating solutions as needed. By continuously upgrading his knowledge, he honed his skills, often traveling to assist clients in other regions. The Missed Opportunity to Scale There was a time when he had opportunities to travel abroad to share his expertise. However, at one critical stage in his career, while his skills were in high demand internationally, he faced a setback. He recounted a specific contract that required certification for the expert in his field. Despite his extensive experience and outstanding ability, he didn’t hold the necessary certification. He had learned everything on the job and mastered his craft, but he lacked formal credentials. Because of this, he couldn’t secure the contract. The company insisted on hiring someone with certified qualifications, regardless of his proven track record. He reflected on this as the first major lesson in his career: if he had obtained a certificate in his field, his business and career would have skyrocketed to new heights. But without it, that opportunity slipped away, despite his undeniable expertise. Let me pause here. Many of us find ourselves in similar situations. I’ve spoken with people who are exceptionally skilled—some naturally gifted, others self-taught—who have mastered their craft over time. These skills can take us far, especially in the early stages of our careers or brand growth. However, when we aim for a higher level, certification and accreditation often become non-negotiable. Without them, certain barriers, limits, and opportunities remain inaccessible. Get Certified! That was his first bitter lesson: certification is essential for crossing those thresholds. Over time, he took short courses here and there to upgrade his skills. He had a passion for learning, which was evident even at 86. He attended the training session I was facilitating—organized for artisans—fully engaged and eager to absorb more. His love for learning remained strong, but the lack of key certifications earlier in his career had already limited his trajectory. While he’s doing well now, he no longer has the drive to pursue certifications or aim for new heights. Instead, his focus has shifted. At this stage of life, his goal is to pass on his expertise to younger people, ensuring they avoid the mistakes he made. This marked his first encounter with the challenges of not having certification. Missed Opportunity to Mentor Others The second realization he shared was about the missed opportunity to mentor and coach others. He reflected that if he had focused more on developing an apprenticeship system or actively mentoring young people, he could have multiplied his impact. By transferring his expertise to others, those individuals could have carried his legacy further, acquiring the certifications and accreditations he lacked. Instead, much of his career was centered on his own work. He admitted that this limited his reach. He missed the chance to create a network of skilled protégés who could have climbed to even greater heights than he imagined, elevating both themselves and his craft. Though he’s now in his later years, he’s trying to make up for it by mentoring the next generation. This is a second regret and a challenge for us all as brands and experts in our fields. While we may not have everything we need, it’s essential to identify and invest in people we can mentor—sharing our expertise, grooming them, and guiding them to surpass even our achievements. The things we couldn’t accomplish ourselves, we can teach them to do and do even better. This benefits society strengthens our legacy, and ensures the longevity of our work. So today, think about your career and your current level of success. Who have you identified as someone to mentor, grow, or groom? Are you actively helping them to reach greater heights—not just for their sake, but to expand your brand’s impact and preserve your legacy? This is vital—not just for ourselves, but for posterity Build your Trust Quotient The third lesson this old man shared with me was about the value of trust. He reflected on how, over the years, he worked alongside colleagues in the same field, all enjoying varying degrees of success. Yet, one of his biggest regrets was witnessing a gradual decline in trust within the industry. He emphasized how critical trust had been to his career. Despite not having certification, those who knew his work consistently sought him out. They trusted him—with their cars, their needs—and he always delivered. This trust became his greatest asset. When I asked about his shop, I was surprised to learn that, even now, he doesn’t have a signboard or name for it. Instead, his name has become a household reference in the community. People recognize and recommend him based on his reputation alone. However, he acknowledged that while trust had sustained him, he had overlooked the importance of visibility. He now plans to put up a signpost—a necessity in today’s noisy, competitive world, where standing out is crucial. Without distinguishing yourself, he said, you risk fading into obscurity. But his key takeaway for all of us wasn’t just about signage or branding. It was the intangible value of trust. He stressed that trustworthiness […]

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-1 MIN

Greetings! – What My Kids Taught Me

NOV 25, 2024

Greetings! – What My Kids Taught Me

Modeling: Lessons I Learned From My Kids The other day, while relaxing on the sofa, I had a moment that surprised me and taught me something valuable. My kids, aged two to five, were unusually quiet—a rare occurrence. This phase of their lives, often called the “modeling years” (ages two to six), is when children absorb the world around them through observation, mimicry, and emulation. It’s during this time that they begin forming their belief systems, learning cultural values, and building confidence. When I went back to check on them, I discovered they had taken a mop from the bathroom, sprinkled water around, and were “cleaning” the playroom. I was stunned. No one had instructed them to do this. My initial reaction wasn’t to scold them but to smile and laugh, amused and curious about what prompted this behavior. It was early morning, and their mom, who typically handles the weekend cleaning, wasn’t home. Then it clicked: They had been observing their mom’s routine—watching her mop the house regularly—and decided to mimic her actions in her absence. Though their technique left much to be desired, its intent struck me. It was a powerful reminder of how much children absorb through observation, often without us realizing it. This experience reinforced an essential truth: children learn not only from what we tell them but also from how we live our lives. Every action, gesture, and habit is a lesson they are picking up. Realizing this, I became more intentional about my behavior, knowing that my actions carry as much weight as my words in shaping their understanding of the world. That day, my kids didn’t just mop the floor—they reminded me of the incredible responsibility and influence we hold as parents. Be What You Want Your Kids to See I’ve realized that if I want my kids to develop certain habits, I need to live those habits myself. This has made me more intentional about my actions, deeds, and instructions. For example, I want to instill a love for reading in my children. To encourage this, I ensure they often see me holding physical books—not reading from my phone or other smart devices. Over time, I noticed the impact. My older girls began picking up books, flipping through them, and pretending to read. Even my youngest, who can’t read yet, started mimicking her sisters by grabbing a book and turning its pages as if fully immersed in it. This reinforced for me how much children learn from what they observe. Realizing how effective this approach was, I introduced a simple nightly routine: after homework, we read a story together before bed. Beyond being an enjoyable bonding time, it teaches them that reading is a meaningful and natural part of life. This experience has shown me that if I want my kids to embrace positive habits, I must consistently practice them. Instead of relying solely on instructions, I let my actions demonstrate what I value—and that consistency is what truly resonates with them. A Walk With My Niece: The Power of Modeled Greetings The other day, I went on a stroll with one of my nieces, who’s in that wonderful two-to-six-year-old stage where they absorb and mimic everything around them. As we walked, we enjoyed observing nature, picking little things here and there, and just taking in the surroundings. When we passed the first house, as part of our African values, I lifted my hand to greet the elderly people sitting there. My niece, noticing this, immediately followed suit, waving at them and laughing. A little further down the road, we passed another house with no walls, where you could see the people inside. Without hesitation, she waved at someone there as well. The person responded warmly, asking how she was, and we all exchanged smiles. From that moment on, she greeted almost everyone we encountered along the way—smiling, waving, and interacting. It didn’t matter whether she could speak fluently or not; she had picked up on the value of acknowledging others simply by watching me. This small experience left a big impression on me. It reminded me how important it is to model the right behavior for children—teaching them respect for others, especially elders, and encouraging kindness and connection. By simply greeting people and engaging with them, we pass on values like social grace, respect, and the importance of community. Moments like this highlight how much kids learn not just from what we tell them but from what we do. I realized that by modeling simple, respectful actions, we can shape their understanding of what’s acceptable and meaningful in society. For my niece, this walk was more than a stroll—it was a lesson in honoring others and building connections. Little Lessons, Big Impact: Teaching Through Actions There are lessons we often overlook but are incredibly important—especially as guardians, parents, or role models. It’s the seemingly small, everyday moments that carry the most weight in shaping the habits and values of the next generation. For instance, after meals, I’ve made it a point to take dishes to the kitchen and clean them right away. Over time, I noticed the kids picking up on this. Even though they’re too young to wash properly, they try—dragging chairs to the sink, standing on their tiptoes, and attempting to scrub. Sometimes I take over to ensure the job is done right, but other times, I let them continue to encourage their effort. It’s less about the result and more about instilling the habit. These little habits, developed in childhood, are the foundation of lifelong discipline and responsibility. As parents and guardians, we need to be intentional about modeling these behaviors during what I call the “morning stage” of their development—the early years when their minds are most impressionable. This principle extends beyond parenting into mentoring and coaching others in adulthood. It’s not just about what we say; it’s about aligning our words with our actions. When people see us consistently practicing what we teach, our lessons […]

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-1 MIN

Prime Seasons Are Not Forever

NOV 24, 2024

Prime Seasons Are Not Forever

“Your moments of glory can fade without a trace if those seasons are not leveraged effectively.” Your prime days won’t last a lifetime —time flies. Today, I want to share the importance of maximizing your prime time or peak seasons. I recall a moment in 2024, during a boxing match between Jake Paul, 27, and Mike Tyson, 58. While the fight might have been a spectacle for some, the mismatch was glaring. Tyson, a legend in boxing, was in his unparalleled prime. In his heyday, it was nearly impossible to knock him out or beat him in the ring; only a handful managed to do so. His dominance was undeniable. However, at 58, Tyson was no longer in his prime despite his zeal and passion. This got me thinking about how, in every field, we strive to stay relevant and at the top of our game. There is always a peak season—a period when we’re at our absolute best regarding skill, success, or influence. This could last a year, five years, or even a decade, but it’s crucial to recognize and maximize it. During this time, businesses grow, brands shine, and personal achievements reach their zenith. However, if we fail to seize the opportunities during these prime days, we may look back with regret. This is why you see athletes like Ronaldo and Messi giving their all during their peak years, or authors and innovators pushing themselves to do more at the height of their careers. The key lesson is not to stop after achieving one or two victories, writing one or two books, or building fleeting fame. Those moments of glory can fade if not leveraged effectively. As personal brands or businesses, we must ask ourselves: 1. What are we doing with our prime days? 2. Are we giving our best while the spotlight is on us? 3. How can we build a legacy that outlasts our peak seasons? Your prime season is a gift. Make it count. Maximizing Lessons and Actions in Your Prime Days No one stays in their prime forever. Life’s seasons are designed with purpose, and your prime days serve as the foundation for what comes next. The challenge is not to let the success of these moments deceive you into thinking they’ll last forever or define your entire journey. Instead, you must approach your peak with intentionality, humility, and strategy. Lessons to Learn in Your Prime 1. Stay Humble and Grounded Success has a way of inflating egos. Recognize that your prime is a season, not a lifetime. Use this time to remain teachable, understanding that growth continues beyond your peak. 2. Invest in Sustainability Your prime offers an opportunity to build a legacy. Whether it’s through relationships, skills, or assets, focus on creating structures that outlast your peak years. 3. Appreciate the Journey Don’t rush through your prime solely chasing outcomes. Learn to value the process and the lessons it brings. These experiences will shape you for the seasons ahead. Key Actions to Take in Your Prime 1. Do More of What Got You There Whatever brought you success—practice, consistency, creativity—double down on it. If you’re an athlete like Usain Bolt, run more races. If you’re a writer, write more books. 2. Maximize Opportunities Like Messi scoring goals and Ronaldo seizing every match, use every chance to excel in your field. This is the time to stretch your limits and achieve as much as possible. 3. Keep Creating Let nothing stop you. Keep your creative juices flowing and channel your energy into meaningful projects. For me, this has meant writing more books. I remember a conversation with a top business leader who marveled at my 50-plus books, joking that with that many, he would’ve been a millionaire. That moment reinforced the importance of embracing my prime and continuing to write relentlessly. 4. Build Beyond the Present Think of your prime as a launchpad, not the destination. Set yourself up for the next step by expanding your reach, mentoring others, or exploring new ventures. For example, Albert Opoku of Happa Space says that during his prime, he will be mentoring and creating startups in addition to writing. Make the Most of Your Prime Your prime days are a gift—filled with potential and opportunity. Use this time to do the most, build the strongest foundations, and create a legacy that endures long after the spotlight fades. There will be a next chapter, but how you maximize this season will determine its richness. So, keep moving. Keep creating. Keep building. Let nothing stop you. Maximize Your Prime and Prepare for Life Beyond Your prime is a unique season of energy, capacity, and growth. It’s the time to capitalize on your strengths, build your legacy, and lay a foundation for the seasons to come. But what happens after the applause fades, and someone else takes center stage? How you prepare for those quieter days determines whether you continue to thrive or grind to a halt. Steps to Take During Your Prime 1. Maximize Your Capacity While you have the energy and drive, do all you can. Young people, especially, have a unique opportunity to grow, build, and expand. This is your time to push limits and achieve the impossible—whether that’s launching businesses, writing books, mastering your craft, or excelling in your field. 2. Think Beyond the Spotlight While in your prime, consider your “off-season.” Plan for the days when your fame diminishes and others take the stage. This is not a defeat—it’s a transition. Your prime is a season to prepare for life after the limelight. Key Areas to Focus On 1. Finances Use your prime to save and invest. Create multiple streams of income that will sustain you during quieter seasons. Whether it’s real estate, business ventures, or other investments, ensure you’re financially secure for the long term. 2. Health Don’t neglect your health while pursuing success. Establish habits that will keep you strong in your later years. Exercise, eat well, and rest—you’ll thank yourself […]

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-1 MIN

Audience and Market Fit!

NOV 12, 2024

Audience and Market Fit!

Your Salary is the Shoe’s Price Tag The importance of creating tailor-made solutions for clients and customers cannot be overstated. In doing business today, knowing your target audience is as important as the product itself. To genuinely succeed, you need to match your offerings to the needs, lifestyle, and economic capacity of those you aim to serve. Let me illustrate this with a personal experience that left a lasting impression on me. A few years back, I lived in a middle-class neighborhood in Kent, Kumasi. It was a modest area filled with a vibrant mix of small businesses, roadside shops, and a few local offices. This wasn’t the sort of place where one expected high-end retail shops; it catered to the community’s everyday needs. Here, people prioritized affordability and practicality, with most families managing budgets carefully. One day, a new footwear shop opened nearby. Its branding was striking, with bold colors and a modern look that stood out in the neighborhood. I remember mentioning it to my cousins as we walked by one evening. “We should check it out,” I suggested, intrigued by the shop’s polished exterior. It seemed out of place among the humble structures surrounding it, but that only added to its allure. A few days later, we walked into the store, excited to see what it offered. From the outside, the place had already positioned itself as something unique—a step above the typical roadside stalls and general shops that dotted the neighborhood. Inside, the layout was stylish, with neatly arranged shelves displaying a range of well-crafted shoes. Each pair looked sturdy, designed with an eye for detail, and, to be fair, you could tell that these were high-quality products. The ambiance had a touch of sophistication, complete with sleek lighting and an elegant display that made every shoe look like a prized possession. However, as we started checking the price tags, our excitement quickly gave way to disbelief. Each pair of shoes was marked at prices that would make anyone in the neighborhood pause: ₵1,500, ₵2,000, with the lowest around ₵800. To put it into perspective, for many people in the area, those prices were close to or even above a full month’s salary. It was like encountering a high-end designer shop in a place where most people preferred and could only afford durable yet affordable footwear. As we left the store, my cousins and I couldn’t stop talking about it. “Who’s going to buy those shoes here?” one of them asked. It was a good question. We couldn’t deny the quality or even the style of the products, but the price felt completely disconnected from the reality of the local residents. This wasn’t an affluent neighborhood, nor was it the type of bustling shopping district where people came to splurge on premium products. Instead, it was a practical community where people chose utility over luxury, often driven by necessity rather than indulgence. Barely two months later, the shop closed. We never found out the specific reasons, but it wasn’t difficult to guess. The mismatch between the shop’s pricing strategy and the neighborhood’s purchasing power had likely played a significant role. No matter how attractive the branding, how sleek the interior design, or how high-quality the shoes were, the fundamental flaw was that the store’s offerings were out of sync with the area’s economic reality. This experience drove home a principle I often emphasize: understanding your audience is essential. In business, it’s not enough to have a great product or exceptional branding. Your offering needs to be within reach of the people you intend to serve—financially, culturally, and practically. The best products and services will fail if they aren’t tailored to the specific needs and capacities of their target market. Too often, businesses make the mistake of assuming that quality alone will attract customers. But a product, no matter how refined, won’t sell if it’s out of reach for its intended market. In this case, the footwear shop had an admirable product, but it ignored the economic context of its potential customers. A business that overlooks such details can struggle, no matter how sophisticated its branding or superior its quality. Reflecting on this experience, I’m reminded of the vital questions every business should ask before launching or expanding: Who is my target audience? What are their needs, preferences, and constraints? And perhaps most importantly, can they realistically afford what I’m offering? These questions aren’t mere formalities; they’re the backbone of any sustainable business strategy. In every business decision, understanding your market isn’t just prized—it’s a necessity. Your customer’s ability to afford and appreciate your product is as critical as the product itself. When you take the time to align your offerings with the unique needs of your target audience, you increase your chances of lasting success. The lesson here is simple but powerful: to build a business that thrives, tailor your solutions to the lives of those you serve. Quality matters, but accessibility and fit matter just as much. The Power of Knowing Your Market The power of knowing your market became even clearer with what happened next. After the closure of the footwear shop, the same space reopened, but this time with a fresh approach: it became an eatery. From the moment it opened its doors, the difference was unmistakable. Where once the storefront had been largely quiet and unvisited, now there was a steady flow of people coming in and out, both day and night. The eatery offered something that the community needed: affordable, well-prepared food. It quickly became clear that this business understood what the previous one hadn’t. Food is not just a product—it’s a necessity. It doesn’t require the same level of deliberation or budget juggling that a high-end purchase like premium footwear demands. People in the neighborhood could walk in, grab a meal within their budget, and walk out satisfied. There was no sticker shock, no feeling of financial overreach. And because it fits the everyday lifestyle and priorities of the […]

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The Risks and Rewards of Recommendations

NOV 3, 2024

The Risks and Rewards of Recommendations

Today, we are exploring the power of recommendations, a concept I like to frame as “the risks and rewards of recommendations.” I’ll share a few stories to illustrate this message. Years ago, my nephews and nieces kept asking their parents for a particular type of sneaker for school—one that made a beeping sound when they walked. It was popular with toddlers then, and they were insistent that their parents get them the same style. Despite their excitement, though, the sneakers never really turned out to be as impressive as they’d hoped. Then, one of their uncles returned from a trip and brought them a new pair of sneakers. This time, it wasn’t what they expected; these sneakers glowed when you stepped on them! They were different and even more exciting, especially when the lights dimmed, and you could see the glow. Thrilled to Share When he gifted them to the kids, they were thrilled. They couldn’t wait to take these special sneakers to school and church to show off to their friends. The idea of having glowing sneakers set them apart—they felt unique, even proud. The excitement lasted all weekend, and by Monday, they were more than ready to head to school and share their new treasure with their friends. The joy and thrill lingered long before eventually fading away. Now, here’s the thing—these kids were more thrilled than we could’ve imagined. Their excitement was so high that they could hardly wait to share the story of their new sneakers with their friends. They wanted to spread the joy, and that’s exactly the point. As business owners and brand creators, whenever we exceed expectations and truly “wow” our audience, it sparks something powerful within them. It’s only natural—they want to show off that amazing outfit they bought, that unforgettable gift, or that unique experience. Surpassing expectations inspires people to share, and most people love sharing something that genuinely impresses them. Think about it: if you visit a restaurant and the food is exceptional, you’re likely to tell your friends, maybe even take photos and post them online. When a product or service surpasses someone’s expectations, word-of-mouth marketing becomes almost effortless. It’s much easier for people to recommend something they’re excited about, rather than something that’s just average. An average experience may drive some sales, but it’s the extraordinary ones that spark real advocacy. Exceeding Expectations doesn’t come cheap. For business owners, it’s good to find ways to go beyond the expected. But let’s be honest—it’s not cheap or easy. It takes time, investment, and research to discover what can delight your audience. Especially as we approach the festive season, it’s worth asking, “What can I do to wow my customers?” Maybe it’s an extra item in a holiday package, a surprise discount, or adding a unique twist to a regular offering. For instance, if you sell groceries, you might include a bonus book in a holiday hamper—something unexpected yet appreciated. Small surprises like these can lead to lasting impressions and more word-of-mouth recommendations. I’ve seen this play out countless times, especially with children. Give them something delightful, and they’re eager to share it with others. They naturally want to spread the “good news.” And that’s the beauty of creating something extraordinary—it’s a gift that keeps getting passed on. These are things we need to integrate into our businesses and brands. Ask yourself, “What will make my clients or customers want to tell someone about this?” Ideally, it should always be something positive. This leads us to the power of recommendations. Skilled but Bad Work Ethics A few months back, we planned a trip to Cape Coast and needed to rent a bus. One of my friends suggested we use a driver from XYZ company—a person they’d hired recently who had left a great impression. Trusting our friend’s recommendation, we booked the driver. Guess what, when the day arrived, the driver showed up significantly late, with no excuse or apology. This was a disappointment, especially since he’d come highly recommended, and his first action was to delay the trip. That poor first impression lingered. Once we finally got on the road, though, the driver’s skills were evident. He drove exceptionally well, was careful, and handled the trip professionally. But the initial lateness had already set a negative tone. Later, our friend who recommended him added, “Oh, I forgot to mention—he’s a fantastic driver but is always late.” This detail might seem small, but it’s a significant downside. The driver’s skill is undeniable, yet his habit of showing up late affects his overall professionalism and could deter potential clients. It doesn’t help the brand. So, naturally, we became hesitant to engage him for future programs—even though he’s a skilled driver. The risk he now faces is losing clients unless he fixes his habit of showing up late. Despite his talent, this single flaw could cost him more business over time. Show up Early For our next trip, we tried a different recommendation. This time, the new driver was scheduled to report at five o’clock, but he arrived an hour early, at four. We were all amazed, as this was something we hadn’t experienced before. This driver was punctual, professional, and reliable. Needless to say, we were thrilled, and now, on every trip, we call him specifically. His consistent punctuality and skill have earned our trust and loyalty. Because he continually delivers excellent service, we’re eager to recommend him to others. For us, as business owners, brand leaders, and executives, this is the takeaway: when our products or services come highly recommended, we must deliver. Do we settle because of a recommendation, thinking it’s “good enough,” or do we go above and beyond to exceed expectations? When we provide quality and professionalism, we leave a lasting impression, encouraging repeat business and an expanding cycle of recommendations. For small and medium-sized enterprises, referrals are a key driver of growth—they offer a faster, more cost-effective way to expand. By consistently impressing our clients, we […]

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-1 MIN