As the year draws to a close, it's a tradition for me to take a step back and reflect on the journey so far. In this episode of Small Wins, I'm excited to share not just the wins but also the invaluable lessons that have shaped my perspective on football and business in 2023. Join me in this reflective journey as we pave the way for the exciting road ahead in 2024.
1. Addition by Subtraction: Less is More
The art of knowing when to let go.
2023 taught me a powerful lesson—the concept of addition by subtraction. In the pursuit of building, it's easy to become entangled in numerous projects, each demanding attention. For me, it was a wake-up call to streamline, reduce the noise, and amplify focus. It meant making tough decisions, like closing down the online community platform. A decision that, despite being challenging, ultimately led to the birth of the Football Brand Starter Hub—a space designed to provide access, ideas, and opportunities for fellow football enthusiasts.
2. Steering Away from Trends and Shiny Opportunities
Discerning passion from the allure of trends.
In the dynamic world of football and entrepreneurship, trends and opportunities often beckon like sirens. 2023 revealed a pattern in my approach—diving into new ideas only to be captivated by the next shiny trend. Reflecting on this, I recognized it as a perpetual work in progress, an ongoing battle against procrastination and perfectionism. This lesson is a reminder to stay true to what truly matters rather than getting swept away by every passing trend.
3. Reconnecting with Football: Balancing Passion and Profession
Finding the delicate equilibrium between work and play.
Working in football is my passion, but it's crucial to avoid losing sight of why I fell in love with the game in the first place. Amidst the intricacies of building a brand, I discovered the need to reconnect with the essence of football—its culture, camaraderie, and joy. Playing structured games each week became a sanctuary, a place to disconnect from the demands of entrepreneurship and reconnect with the sheer joy of the sport.
4. The Power of Getting the Work Done
Dispelling the myths of shortcuts and hacks.
The allure of shortcuts and growth hacks is omnipresent, especially in the digital realm. However, the most profound lesson of 2023 was realizing that there's no substitute for consistent, focused work. In an era dominated by instantaneity, I found solace in tuning out distractions when work demanded my attention. Social media, while a valuable tool for connection, needed a boundary when it came to working. The truth—there's no magic formula, just the dedication to sit down and do the work.
Announcing a New Chapter: A Workspace for Football Builders
Before wrapping up, I have an exciting announcement! In the coming weeks, I'll be unveiling a new workspace tailored for football builders like you. Whether you're starting a new chapter or already crushing it, this space is designed to elevate your football journey in 2024. Stay tuned for updates!
Recap
As we bid farewell to 2023, these four lessons will be my guiding lights into the new year:
- Less is More: Streamlining efforts for focused impact.
- Authenticity Over Trends: Resisting the allure of passing trends.
- Balancing Work and Passion: Staying connected to the heart of football.
- The Work is the Hack: Dispelling myths and embracing focused effort.
