When being an entrepreneur feels like being a 🔥🔥 fighter

By Aaron Rokstad

"In business, there can be a thousand fires that need attention. The great leaders know which ones to put out and which ones to let burn."

In the world of business, entrepreneurs and leaders often find themselves surrounded by a thousand metaphorical fires—problems, distractions, opportunities, and crises that demand attention. The ability to distinguish between fires that must be put out and those that can be left to burn is the mark of a truly great entrepreneur. This skill is not just about efficiency; it’s about strategic discernment and prioritization.

Every day, businesses face numerous challenges. A customer complaint, a competitor’s move, a supply chain disruption, or an unexpected opportunity—these are just a few examples of the “fires” that can arise. While it may seem noble to try and address every issue, doing so often leads to lack of focus and burnout. The best entrepreneurs understand that not all fires are equal in importance. Some require immediate action, while others can be monitored or even ignored in the short term.

The key lies in identifying which fires are critical to the success of the business and which are distractions. For example, a critical system failure that halts production must be extinguished quickly. On the other hand, a minor customer complaint may be less urgent. By focusing on the fires that align with long-term goals, entrepreneurs can allocate resources more effectively and maintain momentum.

This approach also requires courage. Often, entrepreneurs may feel pressured to fix every problem or pursue every opportunity, but this can lead to spreading themselves too thin. Letting some fires burn means trusting in the strength of the business and its team to handle smaller issues while focusing on what truly matters.

Ultimately, the ability to distinguish between fires is a leadership skill that separates good entrepreneurs from great ones. It’s not about avoiding responsibility but about making strategic choices that drive growth and sustainability. As you navigate the challenges of business, ask yourself: Which fires are worth extinguishing, and which ones can be allowed to burn? The answer will guide your decisions and shape your success.

Please remember: Rule #1 in business is NEVER RUN OUT OF CASH!!!