It took me over three months to figure out my WHY. Do you know yours? I remember back when I was running Dial800; it took us six months of group meetings to find ours.
It was a journey for me because I kept hearing the voices of others I admired—Simon Sinek, Jim Collins, Tony Robbins, and Dr. Stephen Covey. Their ideas influenced me, but they weren’t me. I wrote some "great-sounding" WHY statements that didn’t resonate after a few days.
Here’s an example of an earlier version of my "Why," inspired by Simon Sinek's "formula":
“TO help business owners create great companies
SO THAT employees are inspired to create products and services people love.”
It may sound inspiring, but it didn’t hit that deeper place within me.
Getting in touch with what I really want to bring to the world took time. At Dial800, we eventually boiled our mission down to three words: “Optimize Your Marketing.” It was our North Star. If a decision didn’t fit, we didn’t pursue it. If it did, we were all in.
So, what did I finally land on for myself?
To Help Owners Build Great Companies
AND
Have a Balanced Life
When I say "Great," I mean it's highly profitable and healthy for all stakeholders.
Why did I finally come to peace with my "why"? Because it's how I try to live my life. I firmly believe that living a well-balanced life is critical to health and happiness (body, soul, family/friends, careers, and communities).
By helping owners have great companies, they will earn more money with less stress and have time to invest in the other critical areas of their lives.
Implications of my WHY
A truly resonant WHY has many layers of implications. I'll share those with you now. For clarity, I will describe the implications of my "Why" as though I am speaking directly to you, the business founder/owner.
My mission is to guide you toward a profitable and scalable business that allows you to enjoy personal freedom and fulfillment.
By implementing effective leadership, management, teamwork, and accountability systems, I will empower you to work smarter, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters—professionally and personally.
Profitability and Scalability
I’m committed to helping you build a thriving, profitable company that can scale sustainably. My approach prioritizes strategies for increased revenue, operational efficiency, and long-term growth.
Operational Excellence
A great company requires effective systems and structures. I guide you in implementing a robust Business Operating System (BOS), ensuring improved leadership, management, teamwork, and accountability, driving your business toward excellence.
Achieving Work-Life Balance
Building a successful company shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. I help you create a company that allows you to enjoy life beyond work, with more time for family, health, and personal growth. You'll have more time to invest in your body, soul, family/friends, and community.
Long-Term Vision and Sustainable Success
My focus is on creating enduring success. A great company and a balanced life are not short-term goals; they require a holistic approach that fosters lasting prosperity and personal fulfillment.
Empowering Leadership
I will empower you to lead confidently, delegate effectively, and cultivate a capable team. This will enable you to step back from day-to-day operations and embrace the benefits of a well-run company.
This is what drives me—it's my WHY. I find true fulfillment in helping others grow into exceptional individuals. I've been fortunate to learn from remarkable teachers and role models who have guided me.
If you truly desire greatness, it’s within reach. All it takes is your commitment, determination, and discipline to follow a proven system guided by someone who has achieved greatness and genuinely cares about your success. A mentor you can trust with your best interests at heart.
Scott Richards
(310) 613-8686
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