The Hard Truth About Your Remodeling Business
There’s no easy way to say this, so I’ll just come right out with it: most remodeling businesses aren’t really businesses at all. They’re just glorified independent contractor jobs. And if that stings, it should.
But before you get too upset, let me also say this: I respect what you’ve done. Starting a remodeling business takes guts. It takes courage to step out on your own, take on risk, and try to build something bigger than yourself.
The problem? Most of you aren’t actually building a business—you’re just building projects. You’re stuck in the day-to-day grind, reacting to problems, and running on pure hustle instead of strategy. And if you don’t change that, your business will never be great.
What Eddie Murray Can Teach You About Business
Let me tell you about one of my favorite childhood baseball players—Eddie Murray. He wasn’t the flashiest guy in the league. He didn’t have the natural defensive talent that made people take notice. But what he did have was discipline. He worked on his weaknesses, trained himself to switch-hit, and consistently showed up when it mattered most.
Over his 21-year career, he racked up 504 home runs, 1,917 RBIs (11th all-time), and became the MLB’s all-time leader in sacrifice flies. But the numbers don’t tell the whole story. What made Eddie Murray legendary was his preparation—his ability to anticipate the game, adapt to situations, and stay consistent in high-pressure moments.
Now, let me ask you: are you running your remodeling business like Eddie Murray played baseball? Or are you just stepping up to the plate and swinging, hoping something connects?
The Difference Between a Business Owner and an Independent Contractor
Most remodelers aren’t business owners. They’re just skilled tradespeople who happen to work for themselves. That’s why so many remodeling businesses fail to grow, struggle with cash flow, and can’t seem to attract the right clients.
Let’s be real:
Do you have systems in place to keep projects running smoothly, or do you rely on putting out fires as they come up?
Are you tracking your financials like a real business, or are you just hoping the money works itself out at the end of the year?
Are you leading a team with clear expectations, or are you constantly frustrated that no one does things the way you want them to?
Do you invest in coaching, learning, and developing real business skills, or do you assume that because you’re good at remodeling, you’ll figure the rest out?
Because here’s the thing—real business owners prepare for success. They don’t just show up and hope for the best. They build systems, anticipate problems, and make strategic decisions that move their business forward.
The Pygmalion Effect: Why You’re Stuck
There’s a psychological concept called the Pygmalion Effect. It’s the idea that people rise—or fall—to the level of expectations placed on them.
When I coach remodelers, I see the potential in them. I see what their business could be if they put the right systems in place. But the problem is, if you don’t believe in that potential yourself, my belief won’t change a thing.
Most remodelers stay stuck in their struggle because they think their problems are unique. They believe no one could possibly understand their business, their market, or their clients. And that’s why they stay frustrated—blaming the economy, difficult customers, or unreliable employees instead of taking ownership of the fact that they’re not running their business the way they should be.
Are You Ready to Step Up?
Let’s go back to Eddie Murray. When he stepped up to the plate in a clutch situation, he didn’t get nervous. He didn’t panic. He didn’t hope for a lucky hit.
He prepared for that moment. He studied pitchers. He knew what to expect. And when the time came, he executed.
That’s what successful remodelers do. They invest in systems, coaching, and strategies that allow them to execute when it matters most. They don’t wing it. They don’t blame circumstances. They take control and create success.
So, I’ll ask you again: are you running your business like a professional, or are you just swinging wildly, hoping for the best?
Your Next Move
If you’re tired of the struggle—if you’re ready to stop playing small and start building a real business—it’s time to make a change. It’s time to put in the work, learn the skills, and prepare for success like a real business owner.
Because I promise you this: greatness isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted. It’s earned by those who are willing to do what others won’t. Just like Eddie Murray did.
So, what’s it going to be? Are you stepping up, or staying stuck?
Let’s talk.
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