Time

This picture takes me back to the 2000 KART Enduro Nationals at Texas World Speedway in College Station, Texas. That’s me out front leading the pack.

Looking at it now, it reminds me a lot of business.

One thing I learned in racing is that when you’re leading, somebody is always trying to run you down. That’s just part of being at the front. You can’t spend your time looking over your shoulder every lap, but you do have to stay sharp because the competition never stops.

The other lesson came from the format itself. Enduro road races weren’t won in the first corner. Our shifter class ran for at least 30 minutes, and trying to force the issue on the opening lap often ended with bent karts and a very long day.

Success came from being patient.

Being methodical.

Making smart moves when the time was right.

Business isn’t much different.

If you want to be a leader in your field and still be around more than 20 years later, you have to think long term. You don’t have to win every battle. You don’t have to react to every competitor. And you definitely don’t have to dive into the first corner at all costs.

Sometimes the smartest move is to stay focused, keep making laps, and let consistency do the work.

Twenty-six years after this picture was taken, those lessons still apply.

Old kart racers and small business owners have something in common. We both learned that endurance usually beats excitement.