Life is Beautiful

Meet Your Problems Head On

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It was the last thing on your mind, wasn’t it?

You went into business for yourself thinking of all the good stuff that you could do, NOT focusing much on the avalanche of problems that came as a result. Don’t worry you’re not alone... I think most everybody has been there, done that.

The truth is, every business has its share of problems... The stumbling block for many is getting the gumption to meet that problem head on.

I have dozens of small fires I have to put out daily because, quite frankly, that’s the nature of business and human relationships. If I don’t dive in right away and deal with it, the problem will fester and become even worse as time goes by.

The trick is, having a mindset that considers problems as opportunities rather than ulcer brewing situations to avoid.

Be eager to address challenges and you’ll find you’ve won half the battle. Whatever the situation is—a customer complaint or operational problem, whatever—don’t’ turn a blind eye and let it grow bigger. Meet it head on, show a sense of urgency, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ve grabbed hold of the wheel and are controlling your own destiny.

No one’s batty enough to say they wish for problems, but I’ve gotten to a point where I don’t dread them like I used to.

I expect my inbox or phone messages to bulge with them daily, and if they don’t, then I’m pleasantly surprised. Regardless, I consider dealing with those challenges an opportunity to make things better instead of crawling in a hole to hide.

The best weapon any entrepreneur can have is having a fearless mindset. Confronting your problems head on will stifle the anxiety of the unknown...and hand you the reigns of your business destiny.

David

The Art of Networking

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First, let me just say, I love to network.

It’s my thing, and what I’m good at. I love meeting people, feeding off their energy and finding ways to innovate new concepts.

It’s my style, which I think is the right fit for today’s business climate. I’m all the time talking with people who’ve gone their own way and have done their own thing. I honestly think it helps me formulate my own ideas and keeps me creative.

Networking is essential to any business passion. Yet, it has to be a two way street…it can’t be about schmoozing at parties or working the “in crowd” for strictly financial gain.

Networking is about getting to know people and utilizing your relationship with them for mutual benefit...about reciprocating favors and helping others as much as they help you.

Believe me, you don’t want to be known for using people and then tossing them aside. You have to be willing to provide your contacts generously and give advice knowing you may need the same favor too some day.

Active listening is a big part of that. I can’t tell you how many conversations I’ve been apart of...where the other party was more interested in what they had to say then listening.

If you’re only thinking about your own brilliant words, you will miss important information from the person you’re talking to. Listening, I mean really listening, is critical to getting the full picture and showing yourself as a person who is willing to learn.

Another thing is, don’t get easily offended. Networking is about dealing with people...and people get busy. Don’t get your feelings hurt just because your call or email is not quickly returned.

Be persistent and politely try again. If they don’t call you back, then move on to something else. Life is too short to be hurt or upset by something you can’t control or change. The important thing is keeping a positive attitude and persevering.

Remember, the more connections you have, the more opportunities you’ll have available to you.

Stay open to what people can bring your way and never hesitate to help them in return.

David

Thank You, Walter Helmerich

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

I think I speak for all of Tulsa when I say how much we will miss Mr. Helmerich.

News of his death last week struck a poignant note for me personally, and I believe for many in Tulsa. We will miss his care and support of our community like we would miss a dear member of the family.

I can’t think of anyone who lavished more on Tulsa than did Mr. Helmerich or who involved himself more in our community. He truly loved this city and his generosity proved how much he genuinely loved the people.

Most of us know the Helmerich name and equate the name with giving. Yes, there are lot of families who have money but Mr. Helmerich showed us that true wealth lies somewhere in our hearts, not just our wallets. It comes about as an action of touching lives and making a difference, not necessarily from a myriad of business deals.

I believe there will always be those lives that shine more brilliantly than the rest because of the generous nature of their souls. Mr. Helmerich was such a life.

Thank you, Mr. Helmerich.

You’ve taught us something eternally significant about serving others. And for that, we’re very grateful.

David

Good New Year’s Rez: Always Look Ahead

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As an entrepreneur, you have to think long term. Bottomline.

30 years of innovating successful restaurant brands have shown me that. That means having the big picture in mind, thinking about it and planning for years down the road.

I know some business owners...they’re in it for the instant payout...they want to cash their chips ASAP before the flame burns out. Which is all well and good, but they’re not building a business that will last. They’re looking to get in and out without the risk.

You can recognize these folks whenever you see them. They’re the ones who tailgate the trends instead of shaping them.

I’m just not the type to think that way. I want to set my industry on fire. Steer instead of follow. My focus is where my company will be 10 or 20 years down the road. Not just where my bottom-line is today.

I’m looking to build something solid... something that will continue to lead the trends and build wealth for people willing to work hard for it.

I know I have to keep thinking and creating in order to survive. A big part of that is embracing change and innovation. Sitting back and resting on my laurels just won’t cut it.

There are too many examples of companies who lost their passion and had to trade in their legacy for chapter 11. Think of the recent bailouts and bankruptcies. Some of those major firms had been around for decades.

The lesson for business owners is simple. Anyone can crash when they stick their head in the sand and refuse to look to the future.

The trick is thinking long-term and always being on the cutting edge.

Innovate your tomorrow. Envision your future.

And, never stop creating.

Happy New Year

David

De-stress with a Little Christmas Egg Blog

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

We all know how Christmas is supposed to be the happiest time of year...you know, a moment in the chaos called life to finally let loose and rest a little.

But, the truth is, Christmas can be a great source of anxiety and stress for all of us, especially when we don’t know how to really unwind.

This Christmas, take my advice and get some well deserved rest. It’s okay to take some time to relax and spend time with your friends and family.

Drop your daily worries and spend some moments recharging your batteries and de-stressing a little. Above all, you may want to change your mindset about the holidays and alter your expectations for the sake of your own mental attitude.

Believe me, you can either spend your time bitterly complaining about visiting great aunt Maude or you can learn to appreciate the fact you have family in the first place. A lot of people don’t have what you have, so be grateful for it. Shifting your mindset will do you a world of good and will help you realize your blessings more clearly.

Learn also to modify your expectations. Christmas is not all about you or what you should get out of it. If you make this mental adjustment, I guarantee your mood will change.

Too often I think we fall into society’s “I want it now” mentality where we feel we’re entitled to anything and everything, especially during the holidays. It’s better to think of Christmas as a time of giving, not just receiving, and leave any expectations of what we should get at the door.

Oh yea, and one last bit of advice. It may not be what you want to hear...but pass on that third piece of double-decker fruit cake and opt for something lighter instead. Overindulging often makes us feel sluggish and can even cause depression.

Eating right and getting some good exercise in will help you cope with the stress of Christmas and brighten your mood tremendously. I know I feel 100 times better after I’ve worked out for at least 30 minutes and eat a healthy alternative to that yuletide chow. Just a thought.

Here’s wishing you an amazing Christmas.

Take the time this season to surround yourself with loved ones, and... always be sure to count your blessings when you can.

David

Your Customer: A Built in GPS For Your Business :)

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

I heard a funny quote from American frontiersman, Daniel Boone, the other day and it got me thinking.

He once joked that he was never lost, but at one time he was bewildered for three days or more. I like that line. Sounds like some of the small business owners I know. Lost in the woods of unprofitability... and too proud to admit it.

As a small business owner, you may not admit to being lost or even bewildered, but I guarantee...you’ll get side-tracked from success unless you’re willing to listen to the built-in GPS of your business...your customer.

Like it or not, your customer is the one who sets the course of success for your company.

They’re the one who gauges your company’s goals and determines a shift in strategy if needed.

Nothing comes a close second to directing your business efforts and helping you set your whereabouts. Your customer is the GPS system for you business, but is only effective if you’re willing to listen to them.

Now, I love my car’s GPS. It’s so easy to turn on and follow as I travel in my car. The voice is sure and clear and I feel a sort of self confidence just hearing its sound. It’s so worth having, but, it does me absolutely no good unless I turn it on. I have to activate it for it to be beneficial.

Same is true with your customers...they have to be listened to, in order to be a guiding force for your business.

Case in point: the Coney Beach brand. When we first created Coney Beach we had a winning, unique concept…gourmet hot dogs and burgers, but when we added Rex’s Chicken to the menu, our customers went CRAZY!! That’s where we got the idea of reviving the Rex’s Chicken brand...and have experienced tremendous success with the subsequent opening of those stores!

Likewise if you want success, you have to open your ears to your customer’s buying habits and possibly alter your company’s course accordingly....

If your customers like your product or service or if you’ve captured the right target audience, you’ll know in a heartbeat... If not...you’ll know that also. Let your customer be your guide.

Make good use of what they’re telling you in person, by their purchasing patterns, and even in social media... and you won’t find yourself lost or bewildered.

Similar to GPS, your customers will guide you every step of the way…you just gotta pay attention.

David

A Thought or 2 About Being an Entrepreneur

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

You’ve got to admit... being an entrepreneur has a way of making you really reflect about the meaning of happiness and life in general.

Most people mistakenly think that being one means your primary objective is to gain wealth and build an altar to the almighty dollar. I believe nothing could further from the truth.

To me, it means discovering and understanding new things about myself that I never knew before. It means creating a vision from scratch with sweat and blood equity... and sharing that creation for others to discover also.

It means getting the best from myself day in and day out... finding the freedom that allows me to follow my dreams... and helping others do the same. Being an entrepreneur is not just about money or material possession... it’s about pushing myself beyond the absolute limits of perceived potential and building enough success to spill over on others. That’s what being an entrepreneur means to me.

I did a little searching online and found some words of wisdom from various people on entrepreneurship. I’m always interested in a quote that really makes me think. Here are some of my favorites:

"The entrepreneur is essentially a visualizer and an actualizer... He can visualize something, and when he visualizes it he sees exactly how to make it happen."—Robert Schwartz.

"The critical ingredient is getting off your butt and doing something. It's as simple as that. A lot of people have ideas, but there are few who decide to do something about them now. Not tomorrow. Not next week. But today. The true entrepreneur is a doer, not a dreamer."—Nolan Bushnell.

"INNOVATION is the specific tool of entrepreneurs, the means by which they exploit change as an opportunity for a different business or a different service. It is capable of being presented as a discipline, capable of being learned, capable of being practiced. Entrepreneurs need to search purposefully for the sources of innovation, the changes and their symptoms that indicate opportunities for successful innovation. And they need to know and to apply the principles of successful innovation."—Peter Drucker.

"Going into business for yourself, becoming an entrepreneur, is the modern-day equivalent of pioneering on the old frontier."—Paula Nelson.

And my absolute favorite:

"You may be a redneck if . . . you think you are an entrepreneur because of the ‘Dirt for Sale’ sign in the front yard."—Jeff Foxworthy.

Like I said...being an entrepreneur will make you think.

Got any more? Send them my way and I’ll post.

David

Spot the Trends Before Your Competitors Do

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The best entrepreneurs can spot coming trends ahead of their competitors.

They notice the changing market forces around them and utilize innovation to address problems like no one else can.

Yes, every industry is in a constant state of flux and change. But with that change, comes real and dynamic opportunity. Learn to spot those changes before your competitors can, and you’ll be well on your way to gaining market share for your business and realizing success.

As an entrepreneur, I know I have to work hard to keep my ear to the ground and feel what’s coming next. That means I have to constantly step outside my office...my comfort zone...and look at the world around me in a whole new and inspired way.

I’ve learned to listen with purpose in every activity in life. Even when I chat with friends or watch the news...I’m thinking about how people change and how new innovative ideas can best meet their needs.

In this day and age, every market shift contains potential. New demographics are springing up every moment and in ways you may not think. But, you have to be out in the real world to see it happening. It’s all about being aware.

Your senses are always your best asset.

Step outside. Absorb the world. Listen with purpose.

David

What Matters Most Today?

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Well-known comedian, Ellen DeGeneres, once said, "Procrastination is the art of keeping up with yesterday."

It's a funny statement I know, yet so true at the same time. Putting things off is an art-form today because, quite frankly, we feel more at ease tending to trivial matters than addressing the urgent priorities of the day.

I believe every entrepreneur needs to take a breather and ask themselves one key question: What matters most to me right now?

If you can answer that question with passion and certainty, then you’re more than likely focused on the real significant priorities of your business and ready for whatever’s coming down the pike.

Prioritizing is vital to any business vision and means more than simply making lists. You can have a “to do” list strung out from the earth to the moon and back, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get anything significant done in the end.

What’s important now, the locus of your creative life force, should guide your day's activity and energize your passion toward a specific goal. You have to be hands-on in turning the "might have been" into the present reality of making it happen.

Remember, success is rarely accidental. Every part of your journey toward it necessities a plan and willingness to merge action with urgency.

You can either capture the moment... directing your sweat toward the here and now... or you can make an art-form of keeping up with yesterday. The choice is up to you.

Focus on what matters most today...and your vision will live right there with you.

Lose that focus, and you’ll be fumbling around for its forwarding address.

David

Franchise Success Means Nixing the Chaos

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

What has the biggest impact on producing consistent, measureable results for any franchise?

If I was cornered on the topic, I would say-- creating systems that provide methodology and more importantly, consistency to your business model.

If you think about it, creating a system and making it replicable is what makes franchising so appealing to small business investors who want a tangible road map to success.

Giving your employees leeway with operational methods is the kiss of death for any franchise. Options usually lead to chaos. You have to get your employees on the same page by providing detailed checklists (with photographs if possible) of what to do and how to do it to create measurable outcomes.

That’s exactly what Beautiful Brands does so well with our franchise concepts —we make them replicable so that franchisees can follow a detailed business blueprint and produce consistent results with each store. We try to find the best way to do things and then teach that method to each employee. Our managers will then inspect to make sure our checklist is being followed.

Just as employees must understand our values as a company, they must also understand the methodology behind our success. I believe that knowledge is rule number one for any franchise in which consistency of product and service makes the brand what it is.

As Theodore Levitt once said, “Discretion is the enemy of order, standardization and quality.”

Successful franchising means creating the best way to produce beautiful results—then allowing no wiggle room for chaos. Remember, it’s not enough to create the blueprint...you also have to teach it to others and make sure it’s carried out time after time.

Success through consistency. Splendor in uniformity.

David