“Are you passionate about it?” This was the first question that the Owl asked the Zebra about his idea to launch a funnel cake business. “Well kind of” replied the Zebra. The Owl leaned back and said, “Kind of isn’t enough. When you’re working 24/7 on your business and dreaming about funnel cake you will wish that you chose something you truly love.
Lesson: This tip is from “18 Reasons Why Businesses Fail” by Nick Psaila. It was featured on Rescue a CEO. “If you’re running a business or are inheriting one passed down from a family member and you’re not passionate about it, do your self a favor and just sell it. Life is too short to live everyday with something that you just don’t love. The litmus test I like to share with my clients is ask yourself these 2 questions (1) Would I do this for free? (2) Am I happy to dedicate the next 10 years to?”
Image courtesy of lamnee /Â FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Gresham W. Harkless Jr.https://iamgresh.com👤 Author Name: Gresham W. Harkless Jr.
Title: Franchise Broker & Entrepreneur | Founder, Blue Star Franchise
Experience: 15+ years in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and business growth strategy
Location: Washington, D.C. Metro Area, USA
About the Author
Gresham W. Harkless Jr. is a seasoned entrepreneur, franchise broker, and the founder of Blue Star Franchise, where he helps aspiring and established business owners find the perfect franchise opportunity to match their goals, lifestyle, and financial vision.
With over 15 years of experience in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and business development, Gresh has worked with hundreds of CEOs, founders, and small business owners through his media company Blue 16 Media and the I AM CEO Podcast, which has featured over 1,600 interviews. His unique background gives him a deep understanding of what makes a business succeed — and how the right franchise can change lives.
A proud member of the Franchise Broker Association (FBA), Gresham brings a consultative and client-first approach to franchise matching. His mission is to help people “run their race” by finding franchise opportunities that align with their purpose, skills, and lifestyle.
📚 Credentials & Affiliations
Certified Franchise Broker – Franchise Broker Association (FBA)
Founder – Blue Star Franchise & Blue 16 Media
Host – I AM CEO Podcast (1,600+ episodes)
Featured in – 50+ Black Marketers on the Rise, Influencer & Media Innovators (2022)
B.S. in Business Administration – Howard University