Introduction to My Business Journey

I started my business in 1980 and officially retired from it in 2001. Despite not actively managing it now, I am pleased to say that it is in great hands and, under new ownership, is thriving. This article speaks to the success and growth my business, 'Leaders Must Lead,' has experienced over the years.

From my perspective, and that of many others, Leaders Must Lead has been doing incredibly well. It is in a phase of growth that aligns with our long-term strategic vision. The key metrics of this growth include profit projections, impact, and the enduring value provided to clients.

Defining Success and Impact

The growth and success of Leaders Must Lead are measured in multiple dimensions. First, there are the financial metrics, such as profit projections. However, the most significant factor for me is the long-term impact we provide to others, particularly our clients. Our clients have become our passionate advocates, and this has made a world of difference.

The core of my mission is to help Creatives and Entrepreneurs realize their worth, understand their value, and develop their businesses. The ultimate goal is for our clients to look back after a year and believe they would have been foolish not to work with us. In the vast majority of cases, we have successfully met this target and remain proud and humble for the achievements.

Overnight Success, 25 Years in the Making

Limited to my commercial successes, Leaders Must Lead has made significant progress within 25 years. This journey is far from smooth, marked by both failures and invaluable lessons learned. My previous attempts to start consulting companies did not achieve the desired outcomes. These failed attempts highlighted the crucial elements of providing unparalleled value: depth of knowledge, mindset adjustment, and understanding the role of leadership.

Scaling the Business: From Fruit Processing to Market Expansion

Several years after starting to see success, I encountered significant challenges that necessitated expanding my business. I needed to overhaul the energy system at my place from a single phase to a three-phase unit to accommodate the additional power required for processing fruits. This not only included the initial setup but also the ongoing maintenance to ensure a steady supply of refrigeration and storage for guava and pineapple.

The fruit processing itself was a complex, three-step procedure, including juicing, heating, grinding, sealing, and packaging. Initially, the first order was 20,000 kilos, a volume that has since grown to 50,000 kilos, with the potential to increase to 120,000 kilos over a six-month period. These logistical demands pushed the boundaries of my capacity, requiring the acquisition of specialized commercial processing equipment.

Leveraging Expertise for Growth and Expansion

The need to meet these extensive requirements led me to recognize the importance of external expertise. Managing such a scaled operation is beyond my pay grade, and evaluating whether an outside investor would be necessary is a serious consideration. The process is complex, involving custom-made equipment for specific needs like juicers, heaters, grinders, sealers, and plastic bags. Additionally, we are dealing with a single, demanding client who operates on flexible terms, requiring immediate to medium-term delivery.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

This journey has been a testament to the importance of leadership, perseverance, and a deep understanding of value creation. Whether I choose to complete the current order or continue to find ways to grow and scale the business, the success my business has experienced will always be a source of pride.

The success of Leaders Must Lead is not just about financial gains but about creating a positive impact on the community of Creatives and Entrepreneurs. It is a journey that still has much to offer, and I look forward to sharing more about it in the future.