I keep having this recurring dream about falling stars and a team of people rising into the air to try to help them from descending. The people on the rising platform keep reaching out to these stars and telling them to hop on board before they crash into the ground. It seems to me that the star people don’t understand the language that the platform people are yelling to them. They seem confused and by the looks of things, can’t seem to stop their starship from its downward trajectory. They’re gripping rusted levers, desperately trying to change course, but nothing moves.

Alright, I may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but I think I’ve finally cracked the code on what this dream means. Before we dive in, let’s clear up a few things:

1. Relax…I don’t plan on sharing all my dreams. That would require way too much therapy for everyone.
2. There might just be a message hidden in this dream… ya think?
3. Let go of your rusted levers for a minute and actually listen to what the platform people are saying.
4. Never underestimate the power of a team.  A strong team will flatten a so-called superstar like a baker pounding dough—it ain’t pretty.
5. Take action. Do something. Change anything. Blow up your comfort zone. Mix things up (and no, I don’t mean your showroom’s color samples). Boost your energy and your attitude. Just get hungry again!

Bonus Tip:
If you choose to embrace change, surround yourself with the right people and businesses—make it a team effort. Since most companies seem incapable of forming real partnerships, those that do should invest in a rolling pin—because they’re going to be making a whole lot of dough.

Now the truth from down under (Not from where Hades hangs out, but my favorite stomping grounds—Queensland’s Sunny Coast.) The power of the right team—the right people, companies, integrations, and culture—is about to become unstoppable. I kid you not. After a long thought session this weekend, I got a much clearer picture of where things are headed in the next few years. I always had a hunch that the “path less traveled” folks were going to win, but I didn’t expect it to look like the Battle of Little Big Horn. Or, for those who aren’t history buffs (shoutout to Nate Bargatze), imagine a brand-new Chick-fil-A opening next door to your KFC franchise. Ouch.

One major realization hit me square between the eyes: how much of our business relies on external factors we don’t control. Think about it—how many companies impact your business, for better or worse? I was floored when I thought about the sheer waste—time, money, and frustration—caused by outsourcing a certain service. The impact on our business? Ridiculous.

And then, boom—

How about we actually list all the partners that influence our business and our customers’ experiences? Cabinet manufacturers, fabricators, installers, marketing teams, accounting firms, logistics providers, 2020/Pro Kitchens, education/training—the list goes on.

I’ve always believed that you can’t deliver 8-9-10 level service unless your people perform at that level. But now, let’s zoom out—add in all the other businesses involved in that customer experience. That’s a whole lot of outside influence affecting your results. Makes you think, right? Here are the questions you should be asking:

1. How can I provide outstanding service to my customers without close collaboration with my partners?
2. What evidence do I already see that size doesn’t matter if the business model is outdated? The siloed giants are losing market share—fast. I can think of at least three large cabinet manufacturers that have been sliding downhill for a while. Proof’s in the pudding, folks.
3. What technology do I need to ensure seamless integration with my partners?
4. Why, as a leader (and we are ALL leaders), am I choosing friction over seamlessness, stress over fulfillment, and limited financial gains over abundant shared profits—just because I’m afraid of change?

Without a strong feedback loop in your business ecosystem, you’ll struggle to measure performance across each customer touchpoint. Not good. That experience needs to be backed by real-time dashboards, accurate data flow, and strong collaboration between all partners to drive continuous improvement.

No Change = No Growth = Stagnation

And soon, the bells will toll for those too afraid to move.

I prefer a different approach—one that screams “Carpe Diem” and “Seize the Day.” Because that battle cry means I’m living, not waiting.

If you’re ready to shake things up, here’s what’s next:

Dealers—This Friday at noon EDT is your last chance to grab a spot on one of the Elevate Leadership Teams. AI Analytics, Virtual Showrooms, Integrations, and more… or, you know, you could just go back to shuffling color samples. Your call.

Learn More About Elevate Here

World Beaters—We’re on the hunt for two game-changers who want to disrupt the industry with us. Qualifications: Positive attitude, high energy, open-minded, and a team player. Bonus points for Kitchen & Bath Industry experience and strong tech skills. If this sounds like you, send your resume to contact@kbglobalpartners.com.

It’s time to rock & roll, people. The speed of change is only picking up.

Let’s do this!

thad

 Ready to take your customer relationships to the next level? KABS integrates with programs you already use, like 2020 Design, Pro-Kitchens, and QuickBooks online. We’d love to show you how it can streamline your organization and processes. 

KABS information here