How Comfortable Have You Become?

​As we wrap up the first half of 2026, I always find this to be a good time for reflection, a reset, and a refined focus.

It's been an incredible year. The Business Development Shift launched in March, my coaching practice continues to thrive, and Aja and I have loved watching our kids grow into thoughtful, curious, and fun little humans.

Like most years, it hasn't all been positive.

We've lost loved ones. Both of our kids have spent time with the orthopedic doctor after breaking bones. Like most things in life, not everything is going to be rosy, especially when we're willing to stick our necks out in pursuit of learning and growing.
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I've never been a big fan of staying in the comfort zone where everything feels safe. Earlier in my career, I spent too much time there. I avoided risk because I wanted to avoid failure, and over time, I found myself losing the passion I once had for my work.

Everything changed when I started my own coaching and consulting practice ten years ago. The risk was high, there were plenty of bumps in the road, and more than a few sleepless nights. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing.

I often joke with my coaching clients that many of the lessons I teach came from my own failures. The good news is I've made enough mistakes over the years to write a book.

Many of the stories in The Business Development Shift grew out of those experiences. They didn't come from everything going according to plan. They came from taking chances, making mistakes, learning from them, and getting back up to try again. Those experiences shaped who I am today, both as a coach and as a business professional.

Looking back, I'm grateful for both the successes and the setbacks because they've reminded me that growth never really stops. No matter where we are in our careers, there's always another lesson to learn and another opportunity to improve.

Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July this weekend or simply enjoying a few extra days to slow down, I hope you'll take a little time to reflect on the first half of the year.

Have you become a little too comfortable in your business?

Maybe there's a relationship you've been meaning to reconnect with. Maybe there's an opportunity you've been putting off because the timing never seemed quite right. Or maybe it's simply time to try something you've been hesitant to do.

I've learned that growth and comfort rarely travel together for very long. Some of the best opportunities in my career started with taking a chance, even when the outcome was uncertain.

The nice thing about reaching the halfway point is that there's still plenty of time to write a different ending to the year.

However you spend the next few days, I hope you have a chance to relax, recharge, and spend time with the people who matter most.
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I'll look forward to reconnecting with you next week.