The Role of Time in Implementing Change
Summary
In this episode of the Tilt Podcast, Joel Young and Jed Sorkins discuss the barriers to implementing change in business, focusing on the importance of time, building systems, and making informed decisions. They emphasize the need for business owners to slow down, assess their current systems, and invest in the right tools and people to facilitate growth. The conversation highlights the significance of mindset and confidence in navigating business challenges and encourages listeners to take ownership of their goals.
Takeaways
Time is a crucial resource in implementing change.
Business owners often feel they lack time to make changes.
Building systems is essential before hiring new staff.
Investing in software can streamline business processes.
Decision-making should be based on clear goals and numbers.
Don't wait for the perfect moment to implement change.
Confidence and mindset are key to overcoming challenges.
Reassess your systems before blaming individuals for failures.
Creating an environment for success involves structure and systems.
Taking ownership of your business goals leads to greater rewards.
Keywords
business change, time management, systems, hiring, software investment, decision making, mindset, coaching, barriers to change, efficiency
Chapters
00:00 Overcoming Barriers to Change
01:01 The Importance of Time in Business
04:04 Building Systems Before Hiring
07:50 Investing in Software and Equipment
11:41 Decision-Making and Timing for Change
15:08 Confidence and Mindset in Business Change
Implementing Change in Business: Time is Your Most Valuable Asset
In the world of business, two resources reign supreme—money and time. Most entrepreneurs are familiar with the importance of managing cash flow, but equally vital is how you manage your time. Often, the biggest hurdle when it comes to making crucial changes in your business is the feeling that there’s simply not enough time. Whether you're hiring staff, launching a new product, or refining your marketing strategy, finding time to implement these changes is often a struggle.
At Tilt Business Coaching, we often hear clients say, "I just don't have time." It’s a common sentiment, but one that needs addressing if meaningful progress is to be made. Without consciously making time to implement changes, a business risks stagnation.
Take a Step Back to Move Forward
The reality is, businesses don't stop. There's always a new job to finish, an order to process, or a meeting to attend. So how do you create time to make important changes? It begins with a fundamental mindset shift. Instead of seeing time as something that controls you, learn to control it.
“You have to pump the brakes and look at what’s in front of you.”
You might dream of shutting your business down for a week to reassess and rebuild. While it may not be entirely feasible, it’s not impossible to set aside time each week to work on your business instead of constantly working in it. By stepping back to assess what needs to change, you can begin to implement strategies that lead to long-term success. Pump the brakes, as we often say, and take a closer look at your business.
Systems Before People
Many business owners think the solution to being overwhelmed is hiring more hands. While more people can help, it’s a mistake to think they’ll be the magic fix if there aren’t solid systems in place. The key is to build strong, repeatable systems and then bring people in to fit those roles.
“Build the system, build the role, plug the person in.”
If you hire someone without systems in place, it often leads to stress, confusion, and inefficiency. You’ll find yourself blaming the hire for things going wrong when, in reality, the problem is a lack of structure. Before you rush to hire, take time to build processes that ensure the person you bring on can succeed from the start.
Time is an Investment, Not an Excuse
Every major business decision—from implementing new software to investing in machinery—comes with a time and cost investment. Yet, many business owners hesitate, thinking, “This will take too much time to implement.” The irony is, these very investments often save time in the long run.
Take software, for example. It may require a few weeks or months to integrate into your business, but the long-term benefits—like automating tasks, booking clients, or streamlining operations—far outweigh the initial time investment. Similarly, investing in machinery might seem costly upfront, but if it saves labor hours and increases efficiency, the decision becomes a no-brainer when you look at the numbers.
As a business owner, it’s crucial to reframe your mindset. Don't see time and money as mere costs—see them as investments in the future of your business.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
When deciding whether to invest in new systems, staff, or equipment, let the numbers guide you. By doing the math and understanding how an investment aligns with your long-term goals, you can make informed decisions. Ask yourself, “Will this free up my time to focus on growing the business? Will this make me more efficient?”
We often remind our clients that if they consistently work in the business without allocating time to work on it, nothing will change. By setting aside a regular block of time—like two hours every Friday afternoon—you can focus on planning and implementing changes. This approach might seem simple, but it’s highly effective in creating the time needed for long-term growth.
There’s No Perfect Time, So Act Now
Waiting for the "perfect time" to implement change is a losing game. There will always be hurdles—whether financial, operational, or personal. The key is to create the environment for success by having the right systems and mindset in place.
No business decision will ever be 100% perfect. There will always be unforeseen challenges, but the most successful entrepreneurs are the ones who take action despite uncertainty. Tweaks and adjustments can always be made along the way, but you must first pull the trigger to get things moving.
Confidence is Key
At the end of the day, business success boils down to confidence—confidence in your systems, your decisions, and most importantly, yourself. You must back yourself, knowing that you have the right strategies in place to make progress. As coaches, we’re here to support our clients every step of the way, but ultimately, it’s your belief in your ability to succeed that makes the biggest difference.
By stepping back, building systems, and managing time effectively, you create a foundation for growth. It’s not about finding more hours in the day—it’s about using the time you have wisely.
