Over the past 30+ years, and especially after a national disaster, Mister Rogers’ quote has been repeated in some form or fashion. Mister Rogers was a famous Childrens’ TV personality. I can remember my daughter, Erin, watching his show early each morning even before she started attending school. Here’s what Mister Rogers said. “When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the HELPERS. You will always find people who are helping.” To this day, especially in times of “disaster,” I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world. Since we don’t know what you’re dealing with, 2024 could be a daunting year for you, but there are plenty of people who want to help.
Maybe your problem stems with your employees, cash flow or a health issue for yourself or a family member. So, think about what you have planned to achieve in 2024. Perhaps you’re worried that it won’t happen because you’ve experienced some business falling off or you’ve been diagnosed with a health issue for yourself or family member that’s consuming your time and energy. Okay, I get it. I’m going through something like that with my own health where my quality of life depends on me following a specialized treatment plan. I can’t quit, and you shouldn’t either. So, as towers how do we HELP each other to get them through the next few months? Certainly, we can pray for each other, and act upon it as directed by our Higher Power.
Take for instance, Elon Musk. He has made numerous enemies and friends during his business-building journey, particularly with his newly acquired platform, X (formerly known as Twitter). Hoping to stop Elon in his tracks, many disgruntled employees staged a mass exodus, but Elon didn’t give into their demands. He didn’t quit but made lemonade from lemons. Being a prayer-minded man myself, I would have been on my knees asking for divine help and afterwards, from others around me. I am positive that my Heavenly Father would have put the right people in my path to help me.
Speaking of that kind of advice, do you have the ear of a good listening person that can help you walk through challenges? Perhaps your challenge is a financial issue, an additional division, or maybe it’s just how to get your business to grow 10%. The person to point you in the right direction could be a pastor, a like-minded friend, another business owner or partner, a knowledgeable parent or even a local banker. Run your problems or thoughts by someone you trust.
Reading scripture can help because it’s helped me. I’ve seen answers to some of my business needs in scripture. In the past, when I was trying to get someone to help with advice, I would preface my request with, “Scott, I really need your help. And I’m hoping you can help me with some issues that I’m having with my business.” Using the word, “help” grabs their attention so they can offer their best solutions. Most people want to be helpful to others and will change their demeanor in a positive way when asked. A person willing to give advice is an invaluable mentor. Even if you don’t get the answer or suggestions that you were needing, it’s common courtesy to say, “thank you.”
If your problem is with employees, ask yourself this question. Do you have the right ones in place to make 2024 your company’s best year yet? Sometimes making changes in your staff is all you need to make 2024 better than 2023. Several years ago, I wrote an article about the difference in hiring turkeys and eagles. Turkeys repeat what they do and can’t help it if what they do is always wrong. They’re wired to gobble up a good atmosphere, cause chaos and can’t easily change. Eagles on the other hand fly high, keep climbing and are always trying to do better. Whenever an eagle has a crow riding on his back, the eagle will climb higher until the crow falls off due to lack of oxygen. Instead of fighting with the crow, the simple act of climbing higher removes the crow. If additional income is what you need, here’s a suggestion.
Recycling, coupled with towing, can work well together. Parts garnered from a tow can be recycled to bring more cash flow into your business. Ask a friend who has already added recycling to the business how it works for them. Certainly, get some professional advice from your CPA before committing to it.
Although it’s not a surprise to us already, the present US administration hasn’t helped our industry with its relentless push for electric trucks without being prepared for changes it would cause. I truly believe that due to those new challenges, towers across this country will need even more helpers in 2024. As in the words of Mister Roger’s mom, “Look for the helpers.” So, look for “helpers” within our towing industry. They’re out there, waiting to help. If you’re struggling right now and don’t know which way to turn, call 770-301-4122. I’d love to pray for you, your health, or your business because as Towers, we are in this business together. And, too, I might know someone who would love to help you.
See you on the next Tow Professional podcast.
