I landed my first sales job at 15 and stepped into retail management at 18. By 21, I was fully immersed in the mortgage business, and I’ve had a coach guiding me ever since. What they say about the days being long and the years being short is absolutely true. It’s wild to think that next year will mark my 30th year in this industry. Over the years, I’ve accumulated countless lessons—both from personal experience and from coaching incredible business owners, sales professionals, and corporate leaders.

One lesson that has been consistently reinforced is this: success in any area of life comes at a cost. There’s a powerful quote that says, “If you don’t sacrifice for your goals, your goals become the sacrifice.” This truth applies across the board—whether your focus is business, health, or personal growth. Every priority demands something in return. The question is, are you willing to pay the price?

We often don’t consciously realize that our choices are active decisions. Another quote sums this up perfectly: “What we aren’t changing, we are choosing.” If you prioritize your health, you’ll need to carve out time for exercise and likely spend more on fresh, quality food. But where was that time and money going before? And more importantly, what’s the cost of not focusing on your health? The same principle applies to business—working 12-14 hour days may drive results, but what is it costing you in your relationships, mental well-being, and long-term sustainability?

There is always a cost to our choices. The key is to measure it, understand it, and decide if it’s worth it. Too often, people push forward without reflection, only to look back 5, 10, or 20 years later and realize the cost was higher than they anticipated.

My encouragement? Assess often. Build intentional reflection into your routine—annual reviews and quarterly check-ins. Ask yourself: How am I doing in the areas I’ve defined as most important? What sacrifices am I making? Is what I’m working toward still worth it?

When you take the time to reflect, you’re far less likely to wake up one day filled with regret. Success will always demand sacrifice, but with clarity and intention, you can ensure that the sacrifices you make are aligned with the life and legacy you truly want to build.