Over the last year, I started this newsletter, and 2,500 of you have joined me in reading it every week. Or at least most weeks. Or at least that is what my open rates say.
It has become a labor of love because this is the most real thing I write each week. It is 100 percent from me, or me guiding the AI like last week. I usually write these no more than two weeks in advance, so what you are reading is truly what I am experiencing in real time.
Some coaching programs talk about building the bicycle as you ride it. That is essentially what I am doing here. I hope you see that as a positive. You are getting the raw, the real, and yes, probably the really long version.
The Vision for Next Year
As we head into the new year, I want to focus even more on this newsletter. I want to get it into the hands of as many law firm owners as possible, but only if they believe the following:
- We do great work for our clients.
- We believe in supporting our traditional and digital marketing with personal branding, which means being our genuine selves.
- We can build successful firms while also living better lives.
It is a bit of The E-Myth, a touch of The 4-Hour Workweek, and a spoonful of Gary Vee, just without the hustle culture.
If that sounds like you, join me on this journey and let’s get better together.
If it sounds like someone you know, please pass this along.
If it does not sound like you, feel free to unsubscribe. You will not hurt my feelings.
Why I Believe This Works
I currently run two multi-million dollar businesses, with a third on the way, while working two, maybe three days a week, roughly 15 to 25 hours total.
I did not get here alone. Many people helped me, trusted me with cases when I was new, and went out on a limb for me.
I want to give that back and more.
And honestly, if I can build what I have built, you can too.
The formula is simple:
- Make the plan.
- Honor the plan. Thank you, Melissa Shanahan.
- Tweak the plan.
The 10 Most Commented-On Articles of 2022
To recap the year, here are the ten most commented-on newsletters, in no particular order:
1. How AI Can Help Your Firm Do More With Less
We explored practical ways law firm owners can use AI to improve efficiency and gain a competitive edge.
2. What Would Your Firm Do With 120 More Referred Cases?
A breakdown of how to plan your year strategically, whether you are building momentum or turning things around.
3. Grow Your Firm in 2023 With These 250 Things
A comprehensive list of 250 actionable ideas to move your firm forward.
4. Try Something New
Why growth requires discomfort and how experimenting keeps you ahead.
5. It Is Time You Get What You Want
Three things you must understand to achieve what you truly want.
6. Five Common Flaming Hoops of Death You Do Not Need
How to streamline processes and eliminate unnecessary complexity.
7. The Six Principles of Persuasion to Help You Grow Your Firm
Applying Robert Cialdini’s principles in a practical way.
8. Happy Thanksgiving. I Am Thankful for You
Why life becomes more fun when you stop keeping score, or at least start keeping score differently.
9. Is Being Busy Killing Your Productivity?
Why busyness does not equal success and what to do instead.
10. Why Video Is the Next Best Thing to In-Person Communication
When you cannot be physically present, video helps you build stronger connections.
Looking Ahead
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Seriously, may you not join the CIA as a lawyer. That sounds like misery packed into one organization.
And with that final dad joke, I will see you next year.