A business owner approached me to have a conversation about how to manage the growth of his business.  He had a passion for sports management and was considering expanding into that market.  However, as he told me his story, I sensed something just did not add up.

The business owner explained he partnered with one of his relatives in a professional services business to grow that business.  The resulting growth was spectacular.  It nearly destroyed them both.  They were working long hours, were highly stressed and were burning out fast.  Around that time, he took on the role of full-time carer for his ill father.

They made the choice to split the business and scale it back to a manageable level.  After some teething problems, his life and work had settled into a manageable rhythm.

The owner was at a crossroads facing questions such as – Should I expand into sports management?  How do I do this without burning out this time around?

As I listened, I was looking to hear conviction – the unwavering commitment that growing the business will provide something he does not have today.

I was not hearing it. So, I responded simply:

“You have already made your choice!”

 He sat up with eyes wide open: “No way! What do you mean?”

My response:  “There is no need to grow now.  The business is serving its purpose – giving you the time to be the full-time carer for your Dad.  You will never regret prioritising that relationship”.

 The owner slumped back in the chair.  Relief all over his face as if a huge load had been taken off his shoulders.

“You mean I don’t have to grow the business”

I smiled and nodded.

The business owner came looking for strategies to grow the business.  What he left with was clarity about the choice he was already living.