From the Board: Changing Tides
As is generally the case for most of us, the onset of spring prompts us to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past year. We go about the mission of setting goals that will help to make this year our best yet! While this certainly takes on many forms, it undoubtedly starts and ends with a mindset. My mindset hasn’t always served me or those I wish to serve in the way I would have hoped. The way in which we view things globally has a direct effect on how we see things individually. These influences affect our lives and impact our loved ones, business, faith, health and, in my case, golf game. I have come to the conclusion that as much as we think we compartmentalize, as a rule, we simply do not. Ask anyone who knows us best.
Over the course of many years in the restoration business, I have worked for and with many great leaders in our industry. And I have been involved in counsels and spoken at the annual convention. But I recently came to the realization that I wanted to do more. During my 20-plus years as a member of RIA, I have encountered many individuals who have taught and afforded me great opportunities. And I thought it was time to pass on that knowledge.
When I first entered the restoration industry in 1997, I had already been a self-employed general contractor for more than 15 years. Coming in, I thought I knew everything, but almost immediately was struck by how much about our industry I actually had no clue about. I found it embarrassing, thought-provoking and humbling, to say the least. This is where I was blessed. I went to the owner regarding my desire for training and a better insight as to what we did. He stopped me early on and said, “Whatever exposure and training you want, I’ll see you get it.” From that point on, I was given the opportunity to attend conventions, seminars and other events that filled my senses with invaluable insights from so many talented individuals. Although some have passed, many remain good friends and confidants to this day.
My message to “old timers” like me is to provide your brightest and most willing employees the chance to participate on a level that feeds their desire to learn more. I know that this notion of letting our best people go to attend events can be difficult — given the fact that so often they are the most valuable and instrumental to our success. But the truth of the matter is that this is how they will continue to learn and grow. That’s not to mention the fact that the developmental curve for millennials is much sharper than the one we may have experienced. As longtime restorers, we should applaud and nurture it. Over the past couple of years, we have seen the increased involvement by the PRYC, Restoration Rebels and other young industry professional organizations. I, for one, like the energy and enthusiasm they bring to the industry.
My message to our young restorers is simply to soak in as much information as possible. I know that listening to the likes of us “old timers” can feel mind-bending at times, but maybe you will come away with a few pearls of wisdom that might come in handy when you need them most.
In the end, knowledge is the most powerful tool in any business. Be a sponge. Let go of your preconceived notions, attend conventions and seminars, embrace training, get certifications, learn and pass it on!
Changing tides calls for a change in mindset! I believe it is important to be passionate about the things that matter most, and let go of those things that don’t. One’s character is revealed and depicted every day through our business and personal ethics. How we handle our daily situations is a reflection of our mindset and everything that impacts it.
As RIA members, we are part of a proud, respected and important association. It is through a commitment by each of us to contribute as one while working together as many that we will continue to become better, stronger and more committed restorers.