Complacency or Working Smart:
A Crucial Distinction for Entrepreneurs

Welcome back to my ongoing journey documented here on day 1556 of "A Diary of a Runpreneur." Today, I want to delve into a theme that frequently surfaces in my entrepreneurial ventures: the fine line between complacency and working smart. If you're an entrepreneur running one or multiple businesses, this is a topic that you will find highly relevant and perhaps even transformative.

Understanding Complacency in Business

When you run your own business, achieving success and building traction can sometimes lead to complacency. I've often confronted this myself. As my business grows, achieving more and more success, I sometimes catch myself slipping into a more relaxed state, questioning my own effort levels.

I've even wondered whether my ADHD plays a role in this. Nevertheless, the fact remains: as business success mounts, I occasionally ask myself, "Am I working as hard as I did when I started?"

The Dichotomy of Effort and Output

So, what's the answer to that question? Honestly, no, I'm not working as hard as I used to. Yet, paradoxically, I'm accomplishing more than ever. This is where the concept of complacency resembles a double-edged sword. Successful business growth depends on systems, processes, people, and data. Fortunately, I have all these in abundance.

I now have a robust team, numerous systems and processes in place, and regular data reports. These elements allow my business to function seamlessly without needing my constant oversight.

Deciphering the True Meaning of Complacency

While my involvement has lessened, I still find myself grappling with the sensation of not doing enough. The core issue here is distinguishing between genuine complacency and efficient delegation. If the output remains high and continues to grow, then it's not complacency—it's working smarter. Delegating tasks and relying on established systems and processes is something to be celebrated, not shunned.

Engaging in Periodic Self-Reflection

It's essential to continually scrutinize my own performance. There was a time when I believed I had to be omnipresent, constantly hustling. But through experience, I've learnt that if the business can thrive without my direct input, I should embrace that. It signifies that the systems and workforce I've put in place are functioning as intended.

My overarching takeaway today is this: don't confuse working smart with being complacent. It’s about the greatest output with the least possible input. If your business achieves growth despite you working fewer hours, you've cracked the code of working smart, not succumbed to complacency.

Output is the Key Indicator

To summarize, the crucial distinction lies in the relationship between effort and output. Achieving more with less effort is the epitome of working smart. Conversely, achieving less with less effort is a clear sign of complacency—the moment when you need to reassess your approach.

Final Thoughts

As always, I hope my insights provide some value. Each day on this journey not only brings me closer to my mission of saving children's lives through my ultimate ultramarathon but also enhances my understanding of sustainable business practices.

Thanks for joining me today. If you believe in my mission of saving children’s lives by attempting this ultimate run vlog on consecutive days, the distance around the world barefoot style, please consider subscribing, sharing, liking, and commenting. The more people we reach, the more lives we can save.

Stay positive, stay happy, and I'll see you again tomorrow.

Kevin Brittain