Today, I listen to you, the reader, by providing summations of my first two issues. I also share why highlights are useful as reminders, but success relies on digging into and understanding details.

You should listen more than you talk. Though maybe don’t look as sad about it as this beagle. Photo by kyle smith on Unsplash

Listening is a key tool in every business coach’s toolbox – that’s why we have two ears and only one mouth.

After each of the previous two newsletters, readers asked if I could send a 2-minute summary of the first two newsletters, highlighting the main points.

The “CliffsNotes” version, so to speak.

So, I’m going to do that. I’m also going to go a step beyond, so keep reading after I summarize the first two newsletters for more insights (and to find out how my wrestlers did!).

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Issue 1 – Welcome to The Business Coach: Setting SMART GOALS

Success doesn’t happen by accident—it happens by setting the right goals.

If you want to make real progress in business and life, you need more than vague aspirations. You need a system. SMART goals provide a proven framework for turning ideas into action, ensuring every step you take moves you closer to success. Here’s how SMART goals work:

1. Be Specific. A goal like “I want to grow my business” is too broad. Instead, set a clear target like “Increase client retention by 20% through a new loyalty program.”
2. Make It Measurable. Progress should be trackable. If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it. Define success with numbers, timelines, or milestones.
3. Keep It Achievable. Ambition is great, but goals should push you without being unrealistic. Break big goals into smaller, manageable steps.
4. Ensure Relevance. A goal should align with your bigger mission. If it doesn’t serve your long-term vision, why waste energy on it?
5. Set a Deadline. A goal without a timeline is just a dream. Attach deadlines to keep momentum and focus.

The best part? SMART goals don’t just help you set intentions—they help you achieve results. What’s one SMART goal you’re working on this year? Share it in the comments below.

For more detail, click here to read the entire issue (note this link takes you to my business website).

A younger me setting up my pinning move!

Issue 2 – Essential Business Lessons From a Gold Medal Wrestler ( Me!)

It’s not fun, but can LOSING—being the worst at something, being told to quit—be the best things for you? Success isn’t magic—it’s built through effort, coaching, and persistence. In this 2nd newsletter issue, I shared the story of how I learned the “secrets” of success from my wrestling career. Here are a few of the essentials you need to understand.

Most people quit too soon. They hit a setback, hear a discouraging voice, and stop. But real success comes from pushing through, learning from the best, and putting in the extra effort. Whether in sports, business, or life, the same principles apply.

Here’s what it takes to win:

1. Winners don’t quit. The difference between failure and success is often just refusing to give up. When challenges come, push through.
2. Find the best coaches and mentors. Success leaves clues—seek out those who have already achieved what you want and learn from them.
3. The difference between good and great is extra effort. Doing just a bit more—one extra call, one more rep, one last push—separates high achievers from the rest.
4. Celebrate small wins. Every step forward matters. Recognizing progress builds momentum and confidence.
5. Leadership is leading by example. Set the tone with your actions. Show up early, put in the work, and motivate others to do the same.
6. Make your own luck. Preparation meets opportunity—those who put in the work always seem the “luckiest.”
7. Outwork the competition. Talent is great, but effort is the real game-changer. Those who are willing to do more, win.

Success isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment. It’s about showing up, working hard, and refusing to back down. What’s one challenge you’ve pushed through that made all the difference? I’d love for you to share your story in the comments.

Quick Thought: The Limitation of CliffsNotes (and Shortcuts)

CliffsNotes (or TLDR – Too Long; Didn’t Read) summations can be a good way to jog your memory.

BUT!

But you won’t get to where you want to go if you never dive into the details and nitty gritty. You can learn the plot, but you can’t feel the story unless you read the article.

Success isn’t built on summaries. It’s built on deep work.

We live in a world of quick hits—CliffsNotes versions of books, five-minute podcasts, and viral LinkedIn posts that summarize complex ideas into neat, digestible takeaways. But here’s the truth: glancing at the highlights won’t get you to the top.

You can skim the summary, but you won’t develop mastery. You can know the plot, but you won’t feel the story. You can hear the motivational speech, but if you never dig into the “how,” inspiration fades into inaction.

Why Deep Work Matters

In business, leadership, and personal growth, real success comes from diving into the details and putting in the effort:

1. Depth Builds Mastery. The best in any field—whether in sports, business, or the arts—didn’t stop at summaries. They studied, practiced, and iterated relentlessly.
2. Execution Requires Understanding. You can memorize a strategy, but until you work through its nuances, troubleshoot problems, and refine it over time, you won’t see results.
3. Nuance Separates the Good from the Great. Big wins come from small details. The businesses that dominate aren’t just following broad industry trends—they’re optimizing, tweaking, and iterating at a granular level.
4. Sustained Success Comes from Doing the Work. The most successful people don’t just consume information; they engage with it, challenge it, and apply it over and over again.

Inspiration vs. Transformation

I’ve seen thousands of people get motivated by a compelling story, but the ones who truly change their trajectory are the ones who go beyond the highlights. They read the full article, study the entire book, ask deeper questions, and do the work.

So the next time you’re tempted to settle for the summary, ask yourself: Are you looking to feel inspired, or are you looking to transform?

Photo courtesy of Bryant Duhon, Simply Useful Marketing

 Bonus Tip: The Importance of the Art and Science of Listening

Here are some tips:

1. Completely focus on what the person is saying, versus formulating your response, before the person is finished speaking.
2. Let them finish what they are saying. Give them their time. Don’t interrupt.
3. Restate some points that the person said to make sure you understood what they were saying
4. Ask questions pertaining to what the person said.
5. Sometimes even summarize what the person said

By doing the above five action items, you will become a better listener and communicator.

Tessa winning 1st place!

Watertown Wrestling Update

As promised in my last newsletter, I said that I will keep you updated with the results of the Watertown, MA. High School wrestling team that was competing in the State Tournament.

• Tessa, won 1st place, girl’s division, in the State Tournament and became Watertown High School’s first two-time state champion. She also received the Outstanding Wrestler Award.
• Brady, won 3rd place, boy’s division, in the State Tournament.
• Jimmy, won 7th place in the State Tournament.

Because of Tessa and Brady’s 1st and 3rd place finish, they are now competing next weekend in the Six State, All New England States Championships.

Clockwise from top left: Brady’s win, Tessa on podium, Brady on podium, Jimmy on podium, Tessa with the coaches

You don’t have to embark on this journey alone. I’m here to help. I can coach you to have a winning mindset for your business. Together, we can create a customized plan that sets you on the path to success.

I am beyond thrilled that the work I’ve done with my coaching clients led to me being named Management Consulting & Coaching CEO of the Year for 2024 (USA). Let’s get started making this year your best yet! Book a free coaching session today at The Business Coach – Michael Kaye – Coaching – Marketing – Sales.

Or, email me directly  to share your goals and discuss how I can support you.

Let’s make this year your most productive and fulfilling yet!