Hello to our fellow 50,000+ investopreneurs joining us this week!

In case you are new here, (2) weeks ago we took a poll to see how many of you would be interested in having us launch a community for folks building simple, profitable businesses and over 1,000+ of you said ‘Yes!’ w/ the top two reasons being:

1. To host events and workshops

2. To foster community accountability

Last week we doubled down and asked how many of you would be interested in being ‘Founding Members’ by actively helping us get this new community off the ground.

200 of you amazing souls raised your hands and said you’d be willing to roll up your sleeves for the betterment of the rest.

This week, we are trying to narrow in on the ‘launch model’ and pricing structure. As you all know, one of our core ethos here is ‘you get more by giving than by taking’, and knowing that many of our investopreneurs are currently building better businesses on a budget — we’d like to create a way for members who are a bit further along on their journey to sponsor those who are a bit more budget-strapped.

We are also going to push to get corporate sponsors to step in as well if we can validate and prove interest in this ‘pay it forward’ type of model to help out with sponsorships. I mean heck, we’ve sent out 286 issues of this newsletter w/o running any ads to millions of opened emails, so it may be time to cash in a bit for the good of the rest of us!

That being said, we’re curious — of those of you interested in joining this community where we can ‘build where we belong’ who would be willing to pay & pay it forward?

Follow Your Profit-First Principles

What is a ‘first principle’? 

A "first principle" is a foundational concept or basic assumption that serves as the fundamental basis for reasoning and analysis in a particular field. It is a principle that is not derived from any other principle but is self-evident or assumed to be true. 

First principles are often used in philosophy, mathematics, science, and engineering to break down complex problems into simpler, more manageable components. They form the bedrock upon which further understanding and knowledge are built. In essence, first principles are the fundamental building blocks of thought and reasoning.

Profit-first principles serve as essential guiding principles for investopreneurs along our journey to make good timely decisions. They offer a structured approach to decision-making and strategic planning, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and success. While each principle may appear straightforward individually, together they form a robust framework that shapes the entrepreneurial mindset.

More than just a pathway to freedom, these principles embody the spirit of building businesses with integrity and purpose. By adhering to profit-first principles, individuals can cultivate resilience and adaptability, essential traits in today's ever-evolving business landscape. They encourage a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence, while emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's values.

In the face of challenges and uncertainties, profit-first principles provide clarity and direction, helping entrepreneurs navigate complex decisions with confidence - putting you in a strategic position to always be able to make ‘a good timely decision’. They remind us to focus on long-term profitability and societal impact, guiding us towards building businesses that make a positive difference in the world. Ultimately, profit-first principles empower entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with passion, purpose, and determination.

The Profit-First Principles

Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs understand that simplicity is key to success, but they also recognize that simplicity doesn't equate to easiness. They adhere to the principle that strategy is the cornerstone of achievement. It's about honing in on a clear focus, which in turn drives efficient execution, leading ultimately to tangible results. This maxim underscores the importance of strategic thinking and disciplined action in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

Know your North Star Framework. Understanding your left, your right, and where to focus will help you make good, timely decisions.

‘WHY’: For an investopreneur, understanding the overarching goals and direction of their business is crucial. Having a clear North Star provides guidance in decision-making, allowing them to focus on activities that align with their long-term vision. This principle emphasizes the importance of strategic focus and execution, leading to tangible results.

Follow the profit. Simple, profitable business gives you the most flexibility possible. Taking a profit-first approach ensures you are meeting market demands and helps you build a sustainable enterprise.  

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs prioritize profitability as a key metric of success. By adopting a profit-first approach, they ensure that their business remains sustainable and adaptable to market demands. This principle emphasizes the significance of building a simple, profitable business model that offers flexibility and mitigates risks.

Remove the risk. By removing the risk, you’re only left with upside. 

‘WHY’: Minimizing risk is paramount for investopreneurs seeking sustainable growth. By eliminating unnecessary risks, they increase the likelihood of realizing positive outcomes and maximizing potential upside. This principle encourages investopreneurs to assess and mitigate risks proactively, safeguarding their business's viability.

Always be exiting. Define what the next “exit” means for you, for your role, and for your business and work toward that.

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs recognize the importance of planning for the future, including potential exits from their ventures. By defining clear exit strategies, they can align their actions with their long-term goals and optimize outcomes for themselves and their businesses. This principle underscores the significance of forward-thinking and strategic planning in entrepreneurship.

Giving > Taking and Collaboration > Competition. Taking a selfless approach is more likely to lead to a “win-win” outcome. 

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs understand the value of collaboration and generosity in building sustainable businesses. By prioritizing mutually beneficial relationships and a cooperative mindset, they foster a positive ecosystem that promotes growth and innovation. This principle highlights the importance of adopting a selfless approach and nurturing collaborative partnerships for long-term success. Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

Build along the value ladder. Taking a “more, better, new” approach will enable you to maximize value in your business.  

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs focus on maximizing the value they provide to their customers and stakeholders. By continuously improving their offerings and exploring new opportunities, they can ascend the value ladder and enhance their business's competitiveness and sustainability. This principle emphasizes the importance of innovation and evolution in driving business growth. Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

Always be optimizing = Make simple bets. Small, finite experiments are a low-risk way to find what works for you and your business.  

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and experimentation. By making small, calculated bets and refining their strategies based on feedback and data, they can optimize their operations and capitalize on emerging opportunities. This principle encourages investopreneurs to stay agile and adaptable in a dynamic business environment. Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

Trust the process. Change and growth take time. Don’t be discouraged to not see results overnight. If you’re disciplined and patient in your approach, you will yield results. 

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs understand that meaningful change and growth take time. By remaining patient, disciplined, and resilient in their pursuits, they can navigate challenges and setbacks with confidence. This principle emphasizes the importance of perseverance and trust in the journey toward entrepreneurial success. Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

Commit to the journey. You have the opportunity to build something and to follow your why in doing it. Optimize for your happiness to ensure the sustainability of your work.

‘WHY’: Investopreneurs are driven by their passion and purpose, committing to the long-term pursuit of their goals. By prioritizing their happiness and fulfillment, they ensure the sustainability of their work and maintain motivation during the entrepreneurial journey. This principle underscores the significance of aligning personal values with business objectives for sustained success. Simple works. But simple doesn’t mean easy. Strategy equals focus, which equals execution, which equals results.

These profit-first principles serve as guiding lights for investopreneurs, empowering them to navigate challenges, make sound decisions, and ultimately achieve success on their entrepreneurial journey. Trust the process, commit to the journey, and embrace the experience every step of the way.