Standing in the Eye of the Spiral: Navigating Life's Twists with GT

Foundations of Success: Systems, Mentors, and the Collective Journey

WARM UP. Good greetings to all joining in to read the blog this week. I hope this writing finds all of you well. I prefer to publish this blog each Sunday, however a major “fitness sampler” event was held yesterday that consumed much of my regular writing time. The event did postpone our sanctuary visit as well, so we braved the strongest UV ratings of the day and still went and observed in worship. A Sunday business event means that my work schedule will bleed into 7+ days straight of work days, so I will be looking forward to this coming Sunday. The event exceeded expectations and while it requires some more work on the back end, it will be well worth the investment of OT for the continued growth and success of SoFlo Biomechanics.

Since I founded, own, and run a business, there have been a few lessons I have had to learn the hard way, as well as key points that are extremely important to “success.” One key point is installing systems, the other is building a team. This week one of my mentors, DJ Perry and his company Collective Development Inc., launched another feature film into its “theatrical release phase.” I proudly worked on this film behind the scenes as a “Project Coordinator,” which– from my perspective, is a glorified assistant to the amazingly talented “Unit Production Manager,” Melissa Anschutz. The movie is called “Harsens Island Revenge,” check that out here (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21062442/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk). My mentor chose a spectacular name for the parent company, Collective – Development – Incorporated. The “inc” is more tied to the tax filing of things, my emphasis is on the first two preceding words.

A collective in this case, is of many talented artists and business people. Each person selected for each feature film journey needs to come together to give their best effort to see these projects to the finish line. As many of the artists tend to work solo, for some working as a “collective” can be a challenge. Development I have seen and been a product of first hand in many instances. I was first approached with an opportunity back in 2017 on one of their projects to do some photography work behind the scenes. I was given the opportunity at a chance at being developed into a cameraman. I took the chance seriously, gave it my best effort, and realized after about 2-3 projects that that was not the role for me. I have been running my personal fitness coaching business, now a biomechanics specialist biz, since 2009. At some point the film time commitment became too great an endeavor away from social events and my passion that I stepped away for a time in film.

The system of “collectively developing” artists has evolved over time within their company. I have had the honor of being developed into a better businessman. From being a behind the scenes photographer I have been slowly developing into a production manager. In that same time I have been developing from a fitness coach, to a biomechanics specialist. As well as developing from freelancing my fitness coaching from gym to gym to founding and leasing buildings for other professionals to run their business. The insightfulness of naming a company so near its function is something I admire. Just as I have a tremendous respect for the founder and creator of the health lifestyle brand of “ Functional Patterns.” (https://functionalpatterns.com/)

Both of these brands (CDI & FP) have leaders that are fair, yet firm. Before I go too far trying to attribute things to the brand FP’s founder, I do not know him personally. Having met him in person and been involved in the community since 2017, I have made myself believe I can distinguish between an “online persona” and the real person. Both leaders want to see people on their team thrive, they also would prefer them to be honest. Honest in the sense to own up to mistakes and take accountability when applicable. They are open to valid criticism, critique, and understand that they are not infallible. They also know that they are in the position of making tough choices and have a responsibility to themselves, the community that participates in their businesses, and to the people who will consume their product. Within the “CDI tribe” the statement “protect the baby” (the film) is paramount once a project has been launched.

COOLDOWN. Consumption is starting to creep into my mind as it’s nearly time for me to make a meal. Today’s blog topic was originally inspired by a waving flag I drove past that read “LOVE WINS.” I never got to the actual topic that that flag inspired which was going to be “competition” – next time. The thought of competition reminded me that collectively implementing a system and developing a team to get things done has worked quite well for a few of my business mentors. The statement that “LOVE WINS” implies that there is a loser, that there is a war, that there is a competition that “love” is in. Esoterically, “love” does not compete, “love” only is or is absent.

Take Care, 

G$

Foundations of Success: Systems, Mentors, and the Collective Journey