Who’s John Wick
Here I am, thinking about my journey in the complicated world of architecture.
I remember the days when I started my own architecture business.
The nights I couldn't sleep, the tough battles I won, and how I never gave up.
It all comes rushing back to me…
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I had to juggle hundreds of tasks like finding customers, producing the blueprints, talking to stakeholders, managing finances….
I had to figure out everything by myself.
It was like solving a huge puzzle without a guideline or instructions.
A complete chaos.
But with every setback, I gained valuable experience.
Just like John Wick, who never gave up despite the odds, I pushed through the difficulties.
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John Wick (for those who don’t know) is a walking legend in action movies.
You know the type, he's got this vibe that says: "I've been through it all, and I'm still standing."
Like the regular architect out there.
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He's not one for chit-chat.
When he moves, it's like watching a masterclass in getting stuff done.
John Wick is a guy who's had his share of ups and downs, just like the rest of the architects.
He's the sort of person who will never surrender, even when life gets tough.
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Now, I'm not saying he's your typical role model.
We already know that being a hard-working architect, spending long hours and the constant pressure to perform can be overwhelming.
But there's something about his spirit that's seriously inspiring.
He's got this laser focus on his goals.
Whether it's seeking justice or taking down bad guys.
And when he gets going, it's like he's on a mission from the universe itself.
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John Wick is like that architect who never gives up, no matter how tough things get.
You know.
The one who'll tackle a pile of problems with a determined grin and a "bring it on" attitude.
That kind of architect.
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But John Wick isn't just about fighting and action.
He's a symbol of what we can achieve when we dig deep and tap into our inner strength.
He is a walking reminder that even when life knocks us around, we can still get back up and show the world what we're made of.
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So, next time you're feeling a bit overwhelmed or thinking about throwing in the towel, remember John Wick.
Remember that relentless spirit, that "never back down" attitude.
Because just like him, you've got what it takes to come out on top, no matter how tough things seem.
John Wick might be a fictional character, but his message is as real as it gets.
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John Wick as a mentor
Now, imagine having John Wick as your mentor, guiding you through these challenges.
How cool would that be, huh?
His never-give-up attitude will guide you through the ups and downs of beginning your architecture business.
Just like a hero who's been through tough times, mentors have faced challenges running my own architecture business.
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But this journey isn't just about John Wick.
It’s about you.
A young architect with design skills and tech know-how.
Who is handling business, trying to stay productive, and having a strong mindset.
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This is about how experienced mentors can show architects like you how to overcome anything.
Let me tell you a story that can help you with that.
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The Battle-Scarred Architect's Journey
This is how I went from being a wide-eyed architect to a battle-scarred architect.
Much like going from being a rookie to a seasoned pro.
And this is how I did it:
making a ton of mistakes and learning along the way.
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I started my own architecture business with dreams in my pocket and determination in my heart.
It wasn't a walk in the park.
It was more like a marathon through an obstacle course.
I had to figure out stuff like finding clients, dealing with budgets…
And also making sure my designs didn't just look good on paper but could actually stand up in the real world.
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The worst part?
When I got sued.
Let’s get real about this:
Business is a contact game.
You’re going to get sued or you will sue someone.
Whether you like it or not.
Long story short:
We won. Obviously.
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There were times when I felt like I was in over my head.
Days I wish I didn’t start a business.
And nights I couldn’t sleep.
But you know what?
I didn't give up.
I pushed through the tough times.
I learned from my mistakes
And kept moving forward.
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I faced setbacks that could've knocked me out of the game.
Several times.
But I kept fighting, kept learning, and kept getting better.
Like Wick on that scene where he is up against the ropes.
I used every bit of skill and resourcefulness to turn the tables.
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So, as you're starting out on your own architectural journey, remember this:
Challenges will come your way.
But you've got what it takes to face them head-on.
Keep that determination burning.
And never underestimate the power of learning from every experience.
Whether it's a victory or a stumble.
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The Power of Mentorship
Now, here's where things get more interesting.
Imagine you're in a fight, surrounded by all kind of enemies.
Those daily fights you deal in every day in your architecture business.
Suddenly, some kind of John Wick shows up, offering you guidance and wisdom.
Someone who's been through the trenches and is ready to show you the ropes.
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Having a battle-scarred mentor is like having John Wick on the corner.
Mentors have been through it all:
The highs, the lows, and everything in between.
And they're not just about giving you advice on architecture stuff.
Nope.
They're like your personal Wick, teaching you the ways of the force.
Except in this case, the force is mastering business, productivity, and mindset.
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You see, mentors have faced the same challenges you're dealing with.
Finding clients, nailing presentations, managing time – you name it.
It's a shortcut to success.
You can save some precious time by learning from their victories and avoiding the traps they fell into.
Just like John Wick has that network of fellow assassins, you'll have a network of battle-scarred mentors who've got your back.
That's the kind of mentorship I'm talking about.
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But here's the most important thing.
You have to be open to learning from your mentors.
You've got to be open to soaking up their wisdom.
It's not about copying their moves.
No, no, no.
It’s about understanding the principles that led to their success.
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So, if you're a young architect looking to level up your game, don't shy away from seeking out a mentor.
They are your personal guides to the business of architecture and beyond.
John Wick's mentors helped shape him into the force he is.
Your mentors can help you become an entrepreneurial architect.
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Sharpening Your Architectural Arsenal
Alright, let's talk about leveling up your skills.
As an architect, you've got your creative chops down.
That’s cool.
But there's a whole world beyond that.
The world of business, productivity, and mindset.
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Think about it like this:
John Wick is not just about shooting bad guys.
He's got strategy.
He's got tactics.
And he's got a whole bag of tricks up his sleeve.
Similarly, as an architect, you need to add some extra tools to your toolbox.
It's not just about sketching cool designs.
It's about knowing how to pitch your ideas, manage your time, and keep your mind in top shape.
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Let's break it down a bit.
Learn the Business skills to understand the rules of the game
“Architect/ Design Practice owners are extremely talented designers, yet often have seemingly never learned how to run a business. They can feel lost reading a financial statement or managing staff. They are playing the game without knowing the rules.” by Glenn McHardie
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You've got to know how to market yourself, how to manage money, and how to make your architecture business thrive.
Know the layout of a battlefield and use the environment to your advantage.
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My tip: acquire the business skills to understand the rules of the game
🎓 Understand the rules of the game with the Business Challenges. They will help you acquire the skill to fight like John Wick.
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Then there's productivity, your superpower
You've got to know how to tackle your to-do list like a boss, how to prioritise tasks, and how to stay on track without burning out.
You have to be extremely productive.
It's about working smarter, not harder.
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And finally, mindset, your mental armor
You've got to cultivate a mindset that can handle the pressure.
It's about staying positive, bouncing back from setbacks, and believing in your own abilities.
Remember, even John Wick gets knocked around, but he never loses sight of his goal.
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My tip: cultivate a mindset that can handle the pressure.
🎓 Get your mental armor with the Mindset Challenges. They will help staying positive, bouncing back from setbacks, and believing in your own abilities.
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Embracing the Scars
In the world of architecture (and life in general), you're gonna get knocked down a few times.
You already know that.
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But guess what?
Those scars are like badges of honor, proof that you've faced challenges and come out stronger.
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John Wick has got his fair share of scars from all those intense battles.
But he wears them like a badge, a reminder of his resilience and determination.
Similarly, as you navigate the twists and turns of your architectural journey, you'll collect:
- your own set of battle scars
- missed opportunities
- failed projects
- moments when things didn't go as planned.
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Here's the magic.
Those scars are where the real lessons are.
Your scars hold insights that can guide you toward success.
Maybe a project didn't go as planned, but you learned how to handle unforeseen challenges.
Maybe a pitch fell flat, but you discovered new ways to communicate your ideas.
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When I’m mentoring young architects, my battle scars become my most valuable currency.
I’m not just sharing success stories.
I’m sharing the hard-earned wisdom that came from those scars.
And I failed many times.
You can feel my scars.
That’s why I am passing on the secrets my combat techniques to the next generation of fighters.
I mean, architects.
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Don't be afraid of the battle scars.
Join them, learn from them, and wear them proudly.
They're a testament to your journey, your growth, and your evolution as an architect.
Just like John Wick's scars tell a story of survival and strength.
Your scars tell a story of resilience and transformation.
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Writing Your Architectural Legacy
Alright, we've reached the final act of our architectural saga – writing your legacy.
This is where you get to be the author of your own story.
Your journey, your experiences, and your battle scars all come together to create a narrative that's uniquely yours.
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Think of it like this,
John Wick is not just a series of action scenes.
He's got depth, he's got a backstory, and he's got a purpose.
Similarly, your architectural career is more than just a bunch of projects and buildings.
It's a narrative of growth, learning, and impact.
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And just like John Wick's story inspires others, your story can inspire fellow architects.
Your guidance, your insights, and your shared battle scars can shape the architects who come after you.
You're the wise old sage passing on the torch to the next generation.
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But your story isn't just about architecture.
It's also about leaving a mark on the next generation.
Maybe you design a building that becomes an iconic landmark.
Or maybe you innovate a new approach that revolutionises the industry.
You will leave a mark with your unique contributions.
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So, as you stand at the crossroads of your life, remember:
You're not just building structures.
You're building a story.
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Conclusion
I want you to remember this:
Being a Global Architect is a big adventure.
You'll face tough times, celebrate wins, and find so many chances.
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So, if you want to be a top-notch architect, you've got to beef up your skills beyond the drawing board.
Join the business side, master productivity, and nurture a resilient mindset.
Transform yourself into a Global Architect.
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Someone who's not just a creative architect.
But also an entrepreneur and a business oriented architect.
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Until next time.
Your mentor 💪
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Whenever you're ready, there are 2 ways I can help you with:
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1. If you're still looking for traction in your architecture business, subscribe to the Wisdom for the Modern Architect Newsletter. Every week you will get actionable ideas, mental models and resources to help you build a profitable business.
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2. In case you want to level up your business, you can get Full Access to the Global Architect Roadmap, and unlock Challenge & Solutions with all the resources and tools, exclusively reserved for our paid members, by Upgrading your Membership.
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See you around ✌️
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