If yours is a family business that works in any trades based area, you’ll need to listen up.

In 2007, just prior to turning 40, I decided I’d treat myself. Up until that point in time, the biggest reward I’d given myself was an iPod Shuffle. Nope, I’m not kidding. 

Last week, we talked about disruption and how it is impacting the business world.

The world is subject to disruption at the moment. In many areas. And whether the left leaning, fire bombing protesters at the G20 in Hamburg, Germany in early July like it or not, disruption will continue – only the pace of it will change.

What is it with the owners and managers of family businesses and their ability to be distracted by shiny objects?

For most family businesses, the ownership and management structures are similar. The patriarch and matriarch might own and manage the business. Or, they may be the semi- retired shareholders with the next generation stepping into the management shoes in the business.

The owners and managers of family businesses are interesting people. When they first step into business, they’re entrepreneurial, enthusiastic and energetic. The learning curve is steep and with perseverance comes success.

As the owner or manager of a family business, do you feel a sense of guilt when you do something for yourself such as:

When I talk to the owners and managers of family business, invariably the conversation comes around to the people in the business.

One of my great clients emailed me one Thursday morning in complete and utter frustration.