Business MRI

This week I was faced with a challenge: create a list of 27 things that have helped my business get to where it is today.

If you’re anything like me, you’re immediately asking “why 27?”. It does seem like an odd number (literally) but it’s enough to dig deep without overthinking.

The first handful — let’s say 5 or 10 — are obvious. After that? You gotta start digging into the nooks and crannies of your past experiences. And let me tell you… That’s where the gold is buried.

Now, my original idea was to share my list of 27 things with you this week — in hopes that it could help. But the whole reason I got any value from this exercise wasn’t because I copied someone else’s list — it was because I had to make my own.

So, instead, I’m going to extend this challenge to you:

Step 1: Grab a notepad and head somewhere quiet.

Away from the notifications, glowing light, and comfort of your keyboard — find a place where you can have some quiet thoughts.

Step 2: Start with the easy wins.

What are the first 5 or 10 things that jump out at you? Imagine if someone new to this business was casually asking for advice.

Step 3: Dig deep

Here’s where the fun begins! What are the more subtle, less-obvious things that have impacted you? Think about the hardships, the late nights, and the “aha!” moments.

Step 4: Reflect and re-read

Once you get to 27, go through your list again. Anything surprising? Start putting a star next to the ones that really stand out.

Step 5: Take action

In a world where we’re always searching for the ‘next big thing’, what about what’s already working? How can you double down on the things that you’ve already proven to be successful?

I know there will only be a small percentage of you who will find this an interesting challenge… And only a fraction of those who will actually put pen to paper.

But I’m telling you, this was like giving my business an MRI. It helped me see more than the obvious strong points or glaring omissions — it shined a light on the more subtle aspects that are easy to overlook.

And, I’ll admit, when I was hit with this I questioned whether or not I’ve done enough to qualify as an accomplishment. And, even if it were, was it anything more than luck that got me there?

Impostor syndrome is omnipresent — but just trust me and fight through it.

Sometimes you gotta really dig deep to find out what’s driving you — or, in some cases, holding you back.

This could be your reality check, revealing the underutilized strategies and missed opportunities right under your nose.

I dare double-dog dare you to try and find out for yourself.

If you do, hit reply and share with with me, and I’ll send you mine.