by UFG | May 15, 2025 | News
Signarama, the world’s leading sign and graphics franchise, welcomed nearly 400 franchise owners and employees to Las Vegas for its 2025 international convention, SARCON. The three-day event, which coincided with the International Sign Association’s annual Sign Expo, featured educational sessions, networking opportunities, and celebratory programming that enabled attendees to connect with brand representatives and peers while gaining valuable insights to grow their businesses.
“This year’s SARCON demonstrated the incredible strength and resilience of our franchise network,” said A.J. Titus, president of Signarama. “Coming together as a franchise family allows us to celebrate our collective achievements and share strategies that drive success. The enthusiasm and innovation I witnessed throughout the convention reinforces my confidence that Signarama will continue to lead the signage industry through creativity, technology adoption, and exceptional customer service.”
A highlight of the convention was the announcement of Signarama’s new partnership with Location3, the premier digital marketing agency for franchise brands. Location3 will strategically manage national advertising campaigns, SEO and content marketing programs designed to increase brand visibility and drive customer acquisition for all Signarama locations nationwide. In addition, their powerful proprietary local marketing platform called LOCALACT will empower Signarama owners to activate local marketing campaigns for their individual stores, while also providing comprehensive support to all franchise owners through their Local Marketing Advisor team. LOCALACT also developed a powerful Single Sign-On (SSO) with Gorilla Dash, making digital platform access for all Signarama owners seamless.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Signarama and its impressive network of franchise owners,” said Alex Porter, CEO at Location3. “Our team has developed a tailored approach that honors the Signarama brand while giving franchise owners the tools they need to stand out in their local markets. We look forward to helping each location maximize its growth potential through strategic, data-driven marketing initiatives and through our comprehensive local marketing services in our LOCALACT platform. “The event featured a dynamic vendor trade show, specialized training seminars, franchise owner panels, and informational breakout sessions focused on four key topic pillars: Sales, Production & Installation, Numbers, and Store Culture.
Attendees gained insights on sales management, driving employee success, financial management, and team building that will shape their business approach in the coming year.
The convention concluded with the annual awards dinner and gala, where franchise owners were recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the Signarama brand.
2025 Signarama Award Winners
- Rookie of the Year – Thatcher & Melita Brinton -Timonium, MD
- Most Improved – Chris & Carly Hayes – Danbury, CT; Francisco Rodriguez & Loli Ayerza – Hallandale Beach, FL; Craig & Jean Lemke – Glen Burnie, MD
- The Bill Schwalje Humanitarian of the Year – Kevin McCord – Lawrenceburg, IN & Florence, KY
- The Clay Coleman Conversion Store of the Year – Dee Burkhardt – Fond du Lac, WI
- Mentor of the Year – Dawn Bent & Mike Ziccardi – Huntington Station, NY; Bob & Beth Williams – North Fort Worth, TX
- Team Player – Susan Bogen – Deerfield Beach, FL; Alex & Sharon Fong – Redmond, WA; Zern & Dani Vess – Springfield, MO; Michael DeFeo – West Palm Beach, FL; Maggie & Brian Harlow – Louisville (Downtown), KY
- President’s Award – Kathy Evert – Ankeny, IA
- Most Valuable Player – Bob Chapa III – Troy, MI
- Hall of Fame Inductees – The Lamb Family: Mariana, Dave, David & Robert – Ontario, CA (California); Bernard and Heather Kincaid – River Cities (South Point), OH; Beth & Mike Powers – Novi & Flint, MI; Roger Robinson – Dallas (North), TX
2025 Sign Award Winners
- Vinyl (Non-Digital) – Casey Valiant – Evansville, IN
- Vehicle Graphics – Dwayne Carruthers – Oshawa, Canada
- Electronic, Neon & Illuminated – Cynthia and JB “Jason” Brown – Louisville (Dixie), KY
- Digital Print Output – Maggie & Brian Harlow – Louisville (Downtown), KY
- Original In-House Design Concept – Casey Valiant – Evansville, IN
- Directional Wayfinding – Cynthia and JB “Jason” Brown – Louisville (Dixie), KY
- Self-Promotion – Casey Valiant – Evansville, IN
- Router Output – Maggie & Brian Harlow – Louisville (Downtown), KY
- Laser Engraver – Beth & Mike Powers – Novi & Flint, MI
- Branding/Rebranding – Glen Danielson – La Crosse, WI
- Community Involvement – Kevin McCord – Lawrenceburg, IN
- Best In Show – Dawn Homa – Brighton, CO
Signarama is part of the United Franchise Group (UFG) family of affiliated brands and consultants, giving its clients access to the resources and expertise of a global network and almost four decades of experience in the franchising industry.
This article was originally published by Wide-Format Impressions Magazine
by UFG | May 14, 2025 | News
The company announced new marketing agency partnership and honored top performers at 2025 SARCON in Las Vegas
Signarama®, the world’s leading sign and graphics franchise, welcomed nearly 400 franchise owners and employees to Las Vegas for its 2025 international convention, SARCON. The three-day event, which coincided with the International Sign Association’s annual Sign Expo, featured educational sessions, networking opportunities, and celebratory programming that enabled attendees to connect with brand representatives and peers while gaining valuable insights to grow their businesses.
“This year’s SARCON demonstrated the incredible strength and resilience of our franchise network,” said A.J. Titus, president of Signarama. “Coming together as a franchise family allows us to celebrate our collective achievements and share strategies that drive success. The enthusiasm and innovation I witnessed throughout the convention reinforces my confidence that Signarama will continue to lead the signage industry through creativity, technology adoption, and exceptional customer service.”
A highlight of the convention was the announcement of Signarama’s new partnership with Location3, the premier digital marketing agency for franchise brands. Location3 will strategically manage national advertising campaigns, SEO and content marketing programs designed to increase brand visibility and drive customer acquisition for all Signarama locations nationwide. In addition, their powerful proprietary local marketing platform called LOCALACT will empower Signarama owners to activate local marketing campaigns for their individual stores, while also providing comprehensive support to all franchise owners through their Local Marketing Advisor team. LOCALACT also developed a powerful Single Sign-On (SSO) with Gorilla Dash, making digital platform access for all Signarama owners seamless.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Signarama and its impressive network of franchise owners,” said Alex Porter, CEO at Location3. “Our team has developed a tailored approach that honors the Signarama brand while giving franchise owners the tools they need to stand out in their local markets. We look forward to helping each location maximize its growth potential through strategic, data-driven marketing initiatives and through our comprehensive local marketing services in our LOCALACT platform. “The event featured a dynamic vendor trade show, specialized training seminars, franchise owner panels, and informational breakout sessions focused on four key topic pillars: Sales, Production & Installation, Numbers, and Store Culture.
Attendees gained insights on sales management, driving employee success, financial management, and team building that will shape their business approach in the coming year.
The convention concluded with the annual awards dinner and gala, where franchise owners were recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the Signarama brand.
2025 Signarama Award Winners
- Rookie of the Year – Thatcher & Melita Brinton -Timonium, MD
- Most Improved – Chris & Carly Hayes – Danbury, CT; Francisco Rodriguez & Loli Ayerza – Hallandale Beach, FL; Craig & Jean Lemke – Glen Burnie, MD
- The Bill Schwalje Humanitarian of the Year – Kevin McCord – Lawrenceburg, IN & Florence, KY
- The Clay Coleman Conversion Store of the Year – Dee Burkhardt – Fond du Lac, WI
- Mentor of the Year – Dawn Bent & Mike Ziccardi – Huntington Station, NY; Bob & Beth Williams – North Fort Worth, TX
- Team Player – Susan Bogen – Deerfield Beach, FL; Alex & Sharon Fong – Redmond, WA; Zern & Dani Vess – Springfield, MO; Michael DeFeo – West Palm Beach, FL; Maggie & Brian Harlow – Louisville (Downtown), KY
- President’s Award – Kathy Evert – Ankeny, IA
- Most Valuable Player – Bob Chapa III – Troy, MI
- Hall of Fame Inductees – The Lamb Family: Mariana, Dave, David & Robert – Ontario, CA (California); Bernard and Heather Kincaid – River Cities (South Point), OH; Beth & Mike Powers – Novi & Flint, MI; Roger Robinson – Dallas (North), TX
2025 Sign Award Winners
- Vinyl (Non-Digital) – Casey Valiant – Evansville, IN
- Vehicle Graphics – Dwayne Carruthers – Oshawa, Canada
- Electronic, Neon & Illuminated – Cynthia and JB “Jason” Brown – Louisville (Dixie), KY
- Digital Print Output – Maggie & Brian Harlow – Louisville (Downtown), KY
- Original In-House Design Concept – Casey Valiant – Evansville, IN
- Directional Wayfinding – Cynthia and JB “Jason” Brown – Louisville (Dixie), KY
- Self-Promotion – Casey Valiant – Evansville, IN
- Router Output – Maggie & Brian Harlow – Louisville (Downtown), KY
- Laser Engraver – Beth & Mike Powers – Novi & Flint, MI
- Branding/Rebranding – Glen Danielson – La Crosse, WI
- Community Involvement – Kevin McCord – Lawrenceburg, IN
- Best In Show – Dawn Homa – Brighton, CO
Signarama is part of the United Franchise Group (UFG) family of affiliated brands and consultants, giving its clients access to the resources and expertise of a global network and almost four decades of experience in the franchising industry.
For more information, visit www.signarama.com and www.signaramafranchise.com.
About United Franchise Group
Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group™ (UFG) is home to an affiliated family of brands and consultants including Signarama®, Fully Promoted®, Transworld Business Advisors®, Exit Factor™, Accurate Franchising Inc.™, Franchise Real Estate™, the Vast Coworking Group™ division comprised of Venture X®, Office Evolution® and Intelligent Office®, and Big Flavor Brands™ with The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill®, Graze Craze® and Cannoli Kitchen Pizza®. UFG affiliated brands include over 1,800 franchises in more than 80 countries, with consultants that have developed over 600 brands into franchise business models globally. With over three decades in the franchising industry United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
About Signarama
Signarama®, the world’s leading sign franchise, offers branding and messaging solutions in addition to comprehensive sign and graphic services to consumers and commercial customers – from business signs, vehicle wraps, and digital signs, to advertising and marketing services. Signarama is a member of the United Franchise Group™ family of affiliated brands and consultants. As part of a $49-billion-plus worldwide sign market, Signarama has been at the forefront of the sign industry for over three decades. For more information, visit www.signarama.com. For more information on the Signarama franchise opportunity, visit www.signaramafranchise.com.
This article was originally published by International Franchise Association
by UFG | May 13, 2025 | News
Business Value Enhancement Franchise Builds on Strong Q1 2025 Growth with Global Development Strategy; Ranks Among Entrepreneur’s Top Emerging Franchises
Exit Factor, the leading franchise in business value enhancement and exit planning, has announced its strategic plan to begin its international expansion, initially targeting Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland. This global growth initiative comes on the heels of significant domestic expansion in the first quarter of 2025, with six territories sold across the United States.
The company, which is part of the United Franchise Group (UFG) family of affiliated brands and consultants, is actively seeking partnerships with Master Licensees in these international markets to establish a strong presence and bring Exit Factor’s proven methodologies to business owners beyond U.S. borders.
“Our global expansion represents a pivotal moment in Exit Factor’s growth trajectory,” said Jessica Fialkovich, founder and president of Exit Factor. “We’ve demonstrated the strength and universal appeal of our business model throughout the United States, and we’re now ready to help business owners across North America and Europe build more valuable, exit-ready companies. By partnering with dedicated Master Licensees who share our vision, we’re positioned to make a significant impact in these new markets.”
Exit Factor’s impressive domestic growth this year builds on momentum gained in late 2024, when the company sold ten new territories in December alone. The first quarter of 2025 saw continued expansion with three territories sold in January, followed by the sale of one new territory in February. Two territories were sold in March, including Exit Factor’s first territory in Georgia, marking entry into a new state for the brand.
Together, these successes and the company’s rapid growth have solidified Exit Factor’s position as a leading franchise, with the brand ranking #28 out of 150 companies on Entrepreneur’s 2025 Top New Emerging Franchises list and #1 in the business coaching/services category. This ranking is based on a formula that evaluates and scores emerging franchise brands based on more than 150 data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Exit Factor’s ranking not only emphasizes the viability of its franchise opportunity but highlights the need of its services, especially in today’s economic landscape.
To support this rapid growth and ensure consistently high service standards, Exit Factor has brought on a dedicated operations and training advisor. This strategic hire strengthens the company’s ability to provide comprehensive support to new franchises as they launch services in their respective markets, helping them implement Exit Factor’s business valuation and exit planning methodologies effectively.
“Our first-quarter growth, coupled with our ranking on Entrepreneur’s annual list of Top Emerging Franchises, underscores the increasing demand for professional exit planning and value enhancement services across diverse markets,” added Fialkovich. “As we continue our domestic expansion while simultaneously entering international territories, we’re investing in the infrastructure and support systems needed to maintain our high standards of service excellence. This dual growth strategy positions Exit Factor for continued momentum throughout 2025 and beyond.”
Exit Factor’s comprehensive suite of services includes business valuation, value enhancement strategies, exit planning, and succession planning. The company’s track record of helping business owners increase their company’s value and achieve successful exits has made it a trusted name in the industry. Additionally, as a UFG brand, Exit Factor clients gain access to the resources and expertise of a global network and almost four decades of experience in the franchising industry.
For more information about Exit Factor and its franchise opportunities, visit http://www.exitfactorfranchise.com/.
About Exit Factor
Exit Factor™ offers a proven method that helps small to mid-size business owners maximize their company’s value. It’s part of the United Franchise Group™ (UFG) family of affiliated brands and consultants representing the best of their industries. Through one-on-one consulting services and online programs, the trusted advisors at Exit Factor teach entrepreneurs how to successfully improve their company’s efficiency, value and ultimately ability to exit. For more information, visit www.ExitFactor.com and for more information on owning an Exit Factor franchise, visit www.exitfactorfranchise.com.
About United Franchise Group
Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group™ (UFG) is home to an affiliated family of brands and consultants including Signarama®, Fully Promoted®, Transworld Business Advisors®, Exit Factor™, Accurate Franchising Inc.™, Franchise Real Estate™, the Vast Coworking Group™ division comprised of Venture X®, Office Evolution® and Intelligent Office®, and Big Flavor Brands™ with The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill®, Graze Craze® and Cannoli Kitchen Pizza®. UFG affiliated brands include over 1,800 franchises in more than 80 countries, with consultants that have developed over 600 brands into franchise business models globally. With over three decades in the franchising industry United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
This article was originally published by 24-7 Press Release Newswire
by UFG | May 8, 2025 | News
Boomer-owned businesses tend to be in better financial and operational shape than others; the longer it’s been in operation, the better its track record.
An upheaval is reshaping the small business landscape, but contrary to popular belief, it’s not necessarily a destructive force — it could be your golden opportunity. Financial experts are calling it the “silver tsunami”: the wave of small business ownership transfers triggered by the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation, who currently own 30 percent of the nation’s nearly 35 million small businesses, according to Guidant Financial and the U.S. Small Business Administration, respectively.
For younger entrepreneurs, this could be a game-changer. With Baby Boomers retiring at an accelerating pace, now is the ideal time for Gen-Xers and Millennials to step into business ownership — if they’re prepared to navigate the unique dynamics of buying a company from a retiring generation.
Why should you buy from a Baby Boomer?
Let’s break it down with hard numbers. Fewer than 15 percent of boomer companies are passed on to the family’s next generation, according to Project Equity, a non-profit employee advocacy group. The rest? They’re up for grabs. Often, the reason isn’t that the business is struggling. In fact, Boomers tend to run businesses that are more financially stable and operationally sound than others. Their companies have survived economic downturns, evolving markets and changing technologies, and many have grown stronger because of it.
For prospective buyers, this means more stability and less risk. But that doesn’t mean you can skip the due diligence process. As always, carefully vet any business you’re considering purchasing. However, compared to other businesses, those owned by Baby Boomers tend to have a better track record, especially as they’re generally more seasoned and experienced.
The challenges of buying from a Boomer
Despite the clear advantages, buying a business from a Baby Boomer comes with its own set of challenges. For many, selling a company they founded feels like giving up a child. If the owner is the sole decision-maker, their departure could leave a leadership vacuum that makes the transition challenging. It’s crucial to assess whether the company is prepared for leadership succession and whether there are any gaps in the management team.
Additionally, many Boomer-owned businesses may rely on outdated technology. While some owners are tech-savvy, others have resisted upgrading their systems. This presents an opportunity for the buyer to modernize and grow the business using newer tools, including AI, digital marketing and automation. If you’re comfortable with technology, this gap is your chance to gain an edge.
Another consideration: while this emotional attachment can complicate the transition, the right buyer might actually find that it clears the way for a smoother exit. If the owner’s children aren’t interested in taking over, the business may not carry the same emotional weight. For instance, a medical device company that transitioned from family ownership to a third-party buyer saw an 87% increase in valuation just 18 months after the sale.
Key considerations before you dive in
1. Get expert guidance
You’ll need a seasoned business broker who specializes in your industry. Look for one with experience, credentials, and transparency in both their process and fees. Additionally, enlist the help of an experienced CPA to scrutinize the business’s financials and ensure there are no surprises post-sale. A smart, well-negotiated deal could give you the leverage you need to succeed from day one.
2. Evaluate company culture
If the team is close to retirement or the business has long-term employees, you may face the challenge of retention. Consider offering incentives to retain key staff, especially if the owner’s departure could create unrest among loyal employees. Also, evaluate whether the company’s culture aligns with your vision for growth and innovation.
3. Negotiate a transition period
One of the best ways to ensure a smooth transition is by negotiating a transition period where the previous owner stays on for several months. During this time, they can train you, introduce you to key vendors and customers, and help you integrate into the community. This is especially important if the owner has strong local connections or a reputation that could give your business an initial boost. Be sure to include this transition period in your purchase agreement.
Turning a legacy into your own
Though you may encounter comments like, “The old owners never did this,” buying a Boomer-owned business can set you up for success in ways that starting from scratch never will. The silver tsunami isn’t just a wave to watch from the shore — it’s a massive opportunity for those ready to ride it.
Acquiring a business with an established customer base, track record, and reputation allows you to build on a solid foundation. Instead of re-inventing the wheel, you can leverage years of experience and industry connections to grow and innovate. And with the right adjustments — whether it’s streamlining operations, upgrading tech, or enhancing company culture — you can leave your own mark on the legacy and build your own.
Now, more than ever, Baby Boomer retirees are opening the door for the next generation of entrepreneurs. If you act strategically, the silver tsunami could help you build your own legacy, with the lessons and opportunities of the past firmly in your corner.
This article was originally published by Entrepreneur Media, LLC
by UFG | May 7, 2025 | News
It wasn’t long ago that corporate gifting was largely confined to the holiday season, and gourmet baskets or other generic tokens were among the common choices. Times have changed. Today, companies are not only recognizing the strategic value of gifting throughout the year but are also looking for brand-name goods to show how highly they value their clients. More than ever, promotional products are tangible representations of a brand’s identity, values, and commitment.
In the corporate world, branded gifts have become a vital tool for building relationships, fostering loyalty, and driving business growth, not only for clients but for employees as well. Thoughtful gifts can strengthen relationships with established and new clients, leading to increased loyalty and referrals, and can increase staff retention rates by rewarding valued team members.
The corporate advantage: Streamlined branding & strategic vision
One of the key advantages of working with corporate clients is that they have established a well-defined set of brand standards. Corporations understand that the key to successful branding is consistency, and these brand standards not only save time and reduce errors but also ensure that every product aligns perfectly with the company’s overall brand identity.
Smaller clients may still be developing their brand standards, so colors, layouts, and other brand elements may change from project to project. As a result, they require a greater time investment to ensure brand alignment, which may result in a lack of brand consistency.
Corporate clients also approach promotional products from a strategic perspective. They see them as an integral part of their marketing, sales, and employee engagement programs. Products are chosen based on how they will connect with the client’s target audience, convey the desired message, and help them achieve their overall business goals.
Technological advances have expanded branding opportunities, particularly when it comes to decoration methods. In the past, embroidery and screen printing were the primary options, with limitations on color choices and minimum order quantities. But today, we have access to a wide range of cutting-edge techniques. Direct-to-film (DTF) printing, for instance, allows for unlimited colors and smaller quantities, making it ideal for complex designs and personalized items. UV stickers are another game changer, offering permanent, industrial-grade labeling for a variety of products.
These technological advancements have not only expanded our creative capabilities but have also enabled us to offer more flexible options with faster turnaround times and more cost-effective solutions for our clients.
Riding the wave of corporate gifting trends
The corporate gifting landscape is constantly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. One of the most significant trends is the growing demand for brand-name products. Companies are no longer satisfied with generic items; they want recognizable, high-quality goods that reflect positively on their brand.
A few years ago, it would’ve been fine to give clients any wireless Bluetooth speaker with a cool, new feature. Now, clients are specifically asking for premium brands like JBL and Skullcandy.
This shift toward premium brands is fueled by the recognition that promotional products are a direct reflection of a company’s brand and values. While less expensive items may be suitable for mass giveaways at community events, gifts for top clients need to convey a sense of appreciation and quality.
Apparel has also undergone a significant transformation. The days of the ubiquitous polo shirt are long gone. Today, corporations are embracing a wider range of styles and fabrics that might be found in any upscale retail store. Brands like TravisMathew, Tommy Bahama, and even Brooks Brothers have become increasingly popular.
The result: Promotional products companies can offer their clients a more diverse and stylish corporate wardrobe. Instead of a team clad in identical blue polos, you might see women in cardigans or blouses and men sporting puffer vests — all while maintaining a cohesive and professional look that aligns with the company’s brand guidelines.
Thinking outside the goody bag
Corporations are going beyond trade shows and events with their branded products, finding new and innovative ways to leverage these items. They’re using them as leave-behinds during sales calls to create a memorable, lasting impression. Some are even building their own retail stores, offering branded apparel and merchandise for clients to purchase.
One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the rise of employee onboarding and appreciation programs. With hiring becoming increasingly competitive, companies are using welcome gifts to attract and retain top talent. These kits often include items like branded apparel, mugs, notebooks, and tech accessories, all designed to make new employees feel welcome and valued.
In a world where remote work is becoming increasingly prevalent, these onboarding kits provide a tangible way to connect with new hires and establish a strong company culture. It’s about creating a sense of belonging, even when employees are geographically dispersed.
It’s not just about onboarding either. Companies are investing in employee appreciation gifts to show their staff, at all levels, that they are valued. These gestures foster a positive work environment, boost morale, and improve employee retention.
Of course, as this trend becomes more popular, it’s increasingly likely that your competition is adopting it. How can you stand out?
Be a consultant, not just a vendor
In a competitive market, a smart strategy is to take a consultative approach rather than transactional.
When a corporation orders from a large online vendor, they’re essentially treated as a brand-new customer every time. There’s no personal connection, no understanding of their brand and corporate culture, and no guarantee of consistency.
With a consultative approach, you’re building long-term relationships with your clients — taking the time to understand their brand, their target audience, and their business goals. You become a trusted advisor, offering expert guidance and creative solutions that align with their unique needs. You’re at the top of their mind when they start a new project and need ideas. You’ll be ahead of the curve at the next trade show, already knowing your client’s preferences so you can find them the perfect products.
For example, one of my clients, a power company, likes fun items that light up. These items align with both their culture and their brand. Another client, a hospital, is keen on tech gadgets for their doctors. By anticipating their needs and curating a selection of relevant products, you can provide exceptional value and build lasting partnerships.
Any marketing person in a corporate office is incredibly busy. By building a strong relationship with them, you can serve as a valuable resource, offering ideas and solutions that help them achieve their goals. Plus, by being a trusted vendor to one department, you can have the opportunity to connect with other departments of the organization, such as human resources, safety, and community outreach.
Seizing opportunities & building relationships
Building relationships is paramount. Get to know your clients, understand their challenges, and become a valuable extension of their team. By providing exceptional service, creative solutions, and a deep understanding of their brand, you can forge lasting partnerships that drive mutual success.
This article was originally published by GRAPHICS PRO
by UFG | May 2, 2025 | News
He came to America with nothing and barely spoke the language. But Arnold Schwarzenegger got to work and conquered every field he entered, from bodybuilder to movie star and politician. I think he may be the most successful human being of our lifetime. So, I was inspired to read the lessons in this book, from a man who learned them by living them. Schwarzenegger calls his book a tool kit for “knowing where you want to go and how you’re going to get there, as well as having the willingness to do the work . . . [and] the capacity to shift gears when the journey hits a roadblock.”
Schwarzenegger has made many mistakes, some of which were devastating to those around him, and he doesn’t shy away from them here. But whatever you think about the man, you have to admire his determination in learning from his mistakes so as not to repeat them. It’s one of the reasons I recommend this book to anyone who wants to guide a young person starting out in life, whether you’re their parent or their employer. It also can have value for someone established in their career; as Schwarzenegger himself demonstrates, it’s never too late to learn something new or adjust one’s attitude.
Of all the rules Schwarzenegger sets out, I came away with three takeaways that resonated even more than others:
Takeaway #1: Have a Clear Vision
This is Schwarzenegger’s first rule, and I agree; everything starts with knowing what you want and where you want to go. Most people are not as clear in their vision; they have too many different options and they can’t focus on one specific life plan. Focus is critical; the fewer options you give yourself, the easier it is to realize the vision. Imagine if Schwarzenegger had set his sights on all three of his career goals at once. How could he fully devote himself to one if he was already thinking of the next career?
Takeaway #2: Hard Work Works
It’s the only tactic that always works for any goal you attempt, writes Schwarzenegger, who clearly believes in it. He trained five hours a day, every single day, for 15 years to become the world’s top bodybuilder. When he retired from bodybuilding and decided to become a top movie star, he put in the same amount of time to study acting and later devoted those same daily hours to politics.
I’ve always believed hard work can make up for a lack of experience and knowledge. You may not be able to match the competition in experience, but you can outwork them every day and eventually match them or even surpass them. If you want to be great at something, you have to put in the time and do the work.
Takeaway #3: Plan B Is a Plan to Fail
People make Plan B as a fallback when Plan A doesn’t work. They’re planning to fail – why would anyone plan to fail? “The second you create a backup plan,” he writes, “not only are you giving voice to all the naysayers, but you are shrinking your own dream by acknowledging the validity of their doubts.”
A contingency plan is different; it’s your strategy for dealing with things beyond your control, like a recession or a kink in the supply chain. You’re allowing for unexpected setbacks, not failure.
The Bottom Line: The Simple Formula for Success
It’s a matter of having a clear vision, fully committing to it and working hard to bring it to life. Arnold Schwarzenegger started at the bottom of each career he tried, sold people on his value when many were literally laughing at his ambitions, and came out on top every time. And here we are, looking back at his amazing career in fitness, entertainment and politics and ahead to what he calls his “fourth act” of helping the world – starting with this book.
Bonus Read: Laws of Inevitability: How You and Your Family Can Benefit from These Down-to-Earth Basics
I’d brag that I live by many of the core values Arnold Schwarzenegger promotes, but our beliefs have been the foundation of society since long before either of us thought of them. We just wrote them down and explained how we follow them in our daily lives – Schwarzenegger in Be Useful and I in Laws of Inevitability.
The first of many books I’ve published over the years, Laws of Inevitability is a short book with 42 concise rules you can read in one sitting. My intent was to provide a list of essential behaviors and beliefs that the reader can work on one at a time until they become ingrained. These laws are “inevitable” because sooner or later, everyone will encounter them. I simply observed them and wrote them down: “Complainers Lose,” for instance, “Be the Bigger Person” or “Change Is Not a Four-Letter Word.”
Embracing change; that’s the big one. Many of the principles in these two books will require people to branch out of the norm – to change. Schwarzenegger did it. So can you. So can we all.
This article was originally published by Franchising Magazine USA
