I was introduced to John Dawson – former real estate developer for McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts, and former CEO of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – over 7 years ago through a small book club when I lived in Los Angeles. I had never interviewed a CEO of a major corporation before. And while the corporate world has never really been my thing, I’ve always been fascinated by people who are genuinely passionate about it.
John was definitely one of those people – I’m sure he still is, even though he now works independently. And honestly, I don’t care what industry you’re in or who you work for – if you wake up every day with passion for life, you are a rare soul!
If you’ve been following along on my blog, you’ll know that I recently moved back in with my parents after some time in NYC and Atlanta. Although I believe most everything in life is a choice, this was not one I was ecstatic about. I found myself wrestling with the reasoning. “Why??” I would ask myself. “Why am I here? What did I do wrong?”
And then I realized something that John talks about. He says:
“If you think longer term, you’re willing to invest more now in terms of building.”
I don’t know if it’s my generation (millennial) or if it’s how I’ve been wired (which I know can be changed) or if it’s something else, but over the past 10 years, I haven’t been thinking long term.
I’ve sacrificed what I want in the future for what I want NOW.
A thriving podcast? I stopped short. A popular blog? I forgot about it. A successful rap career? It was just a hobby.
I waited for “as long as I could” to see something POP. And when it didn’t, when things got hard, when it felt like no one was paying attention, I stopped.
Think about it: If you started something today and continued for 10 years, slowly but consistently, 10 years down the road would you be worrying about how no one watched your YouTube video? Or how you don’t have anyone reading your blog? No one subscribed to your email list?
No! Because while those things may have been happening at the beginning of your journey, if you are steadfast long term, it is inevitable that you will experience success.
That’s just the way the world works.
It’s like chopping down a tree, giving it a few good hits consistently over 10 years – eventually, it’s going to fall.
And so, this is the warning I heed to you as you watch this episode of Level Up! With Shay: please remember that slow, consistent work doing something you love will always bear fruit. You just have to be patient enough to do the planting and watering, even during the seasons you don’t see any progress.
I’m glad I discovered this shift in thinking today rather than 10 years from now. Because now I realize I can give my gift of writing, storytelling, comedy, personal development, and all sorts of entertainment – without the stressful expectation that I NEED TO GET SOMETHING IN RETURN RIGHT NOW!
I don’t need the views.
I don’t need the likes.
I don’t need the worldly support.
The main thing is that I care. And if I honestly care long enough, other people will start to care too.
That’s just how the world works.
I’m so glad I was able to go back and watch this episode – it came at the perfect time, gave me a fresh perspective, and an opportunity at a new life with many exciting years to come.
Watch the full interview with John Dawson on YouTube now – and begin building your future today.
Prefer the audio version?
Tune in on your favorite platform:
Share Your Thoughts
John’s insights on consistency and long-term thinking really hit home, and I’m curious to know – Is there something you wish you’d stayed consistent with? What might have changed if you had kept going? Leave a comment! I’d love to hear, and I read them all!
Curious About the Original Episode Blog?
No edits made. Just pure growth. 🤌🏼
Check it out here!
For more motivation and inspiration, follow me on Instagram @levelupwithshay!
It’s time to level up!
Level Up! Your Life
Download my Level Up! Workbook for Artists!
Are you an artist or creative who feels stuck? Join my Lights, Camera, Action Plan mini-course to break free.
Ready to join a community where you can give and get support to fellow creatives, artists, and entrepreneurs? Sign up for the Level Up! Membership today!
Want to dive deep into your creative journey? Book a Level Up! VIP Coaching session to get answers and get moving!
Like a Pep Talk From Your Boldest Friend.
For anyone who’s tired of overthinking and ready to get moving. Honest insights, zero fluff.
The kick in the ass you didn’t know you needed.
Level Up! With Shay 
Leave a comment