The Victim is at the effect of things: other people, circumstances, limiting beliefs. Driven by fear.

The Persecutor (or Villian) places blame on others or ourselves

The Rescuer (or Hero) seeks temporary relief from discomfort. Seeks to be right.

Is Cal Newport Drunk?

I asked this question while listening to one of my favorite podcasts, “Deep Questions”. But I was frustrated and confused by this episode. The information being presented wasn’t landing as useful, my mind wandered away, and I decided that the host must be drunk.

It's difficult to see how we create what we complain about. It's easier to lay blame outside ourselves—getting stuck on the drama triangle of victim, villain, and hero.

The "Teach The Class" exercise is a kind and playful way to get there. Wanna play?

You’re in this business to make people happy with the work that you do. You want clients who like you and want you around.  It’s “easier” to just go back and get it done. 

But easier for whom?

We all know this. The building trades are stretched for hiring skilled labor. As a result, there are a lot of companies that are overwhelmed, running on fumes, and delivering less than great products and services.

My bet is that you didn’t send a client satisfaction survey at the end of the project… What would your feedback be if they asked? Here is a customer feedback survey that you can fill out and send to them.

If you built your company from nothing, stepping back can feel impossible. You’ve been the glue, the safety net, the decision-maker. Money feels tight. Time feels nonexistent. Every day is some version of putting out fires.

So the idea of making change—especially hiring help—can feel overwhelming. Like one more thing you don’t have room for.

Here’s the part I want you to hear clearly: you were never meant to do this alone.

It all begins with an idea.