What I Would Tell My Younger Self Now, Knowing What I Know

In the pursuit of success, it’s easy to get swept up in the noise — market trends, societal expectations, and the pressure to do more. But what if the real secret is in knowing when to simplify and when to expand? James’s life advice addresses building a business and life that reflect your true self, defining success on your terms.

Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:18 — 47.4MB)

Life and business are full of choices, but one of the most important decisions we face is knowing when to simplify and when to expand.

While the pressure to scale, add, and chase external benchmarks can feel overwhelming, true fulfillment often comes from stepping back, reassessing, and aligning our actions with our values.

In this solo podcast episode, James explores the art of intentional growth, how to cultivate gratitude, and why defining success on your terms is the foundation for a balanced, fulfilling life.

Table of contents:

1. The balancing act: when to simplify, when to add
2. Build a business that reflects you
3. Redefining success: it’s personal
4. The power of gratitude and knowing when you have enough
5. Where less is more
6. First simplify, then expand
7. Growth with intentionality
8. Flexing vs. fulfillment
9. Getting the energy to do what matters
10. When you’ve “made it,” what’s next?
11. Final thoughts

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The balancing act: when to simplify, when to add

In today’s fast-paced world, the mantra seems to be: Do more, be more, achieve more. But when does adding more become too much? Simplifying isn’t about giving up—it’s about creating clarity and space to focus on what truly matters.

For business owners, this might mean streamlining processes, letting go of distractions, or even narrowing down services.

In life, it could mean decluttering your commitments or taking a break from the endless chase of material success.

The key is to regularly pause and evaluate: Are your current actions moving you toward your goals, or just keeping you busy?

Download 20 Tips for Success in Business and Life (and the PDF transcription)

Build a business that reflects you

Your business should be a mirror of your true self, not a reaction to trends or societal expectations. A business rooted in authenticity naturally aligns with your strengths and passions, creating a model that feels sustainable and fulfilling.

Think about what you bring to the table that sets you apart. Are you a great listener, a problem solver, or someone who thrives on creativity? Build systems and structures that amplify these qualities, and your business will feel like a natural extension of who you are.

Redefining success: it’s personal

Success is often sold as a universal concept: private jets, luxury cars, and a packed calendar. But true success is deeply personal and can only be defined by you.

Take time to ask yourself: What does success mean to me? For James, it’s spending more time with family and surfing every day. For others, it might mean working with a select group of clients they genuinely enjoy.

Success isn’t about what looks impressive on Instagram—it’s about what feels right in your life.

The power of gratitude and knowing when you have enough

How much is enough? This is a question few people ask, but it’s essential for achieving work-life balance.

The secret to feeling like you have enough lies in gratitude. By appreciating what you already have, you shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance. Whether it’s your current car, your favorite pair of sneakers, or your relationships, gratitude helps you recognize that you’re already winning in many areas of life. And when you stop chasing “more,” you free up energy for what truly matters.

Where less is more

Decluttering isn’t just about cleaning out your closet—it’s about clearing the physical, mental, and emotional clutter that holds you back.

Letting go of old business ideas, unproductive commitments, or outdated goals creates space for clarity and focus.

Ask yourself: What in your life sparks joy and moves you forward? And what feels like dead weight? Simplifying your environment and commitments allows you to prioritize what truly lights you up.

First simplify, then expand

Growth is important, but it’s best approached with a strong foundation. Before expanding, take time to simplify. Streamline your business operations, delegate non-essential tasks, and focus on what’s working.

Intentional growth isn’t about adding more for the sake of it—it’s about making room for meaningful progress. With clarity and focus, you’ll find it easier to scale in a way that aligns with your values.

Growth with intentionality

Once you’ve simplified, you can expand with purpose. Growth doesn’t have to mean chaos. By keeping your goals and values at the forefront, you can build a business and life that feel aligned.

Ask yourself: Does this decision move me closer to my vision? Am I ready for the responsibilities that come with it? Intentional growth is about doing the right things, not just doing more.

Flexing vs. fulfillment

In an age of social media, it’s tempting to flex for external validation. But true fulfillment comes from living by your own standards, not someone else’s expectations.

When your actions align with your values, you’ll find greater joy in the process—not just in the applause.

Getting the energy to do what matters

Energy is the fuel behind all of this. From better sleep and quality nutrition to regular exercise and gratitude practices, small habits can transform how you show up in life and business.

Start with the basics: prioritize rest, make time for physical activity, and find hobbies or routines that recharge you. A clear mind and a strong body are the foundation for intentional living.

When you’ve “made it,” what’s next?

Reaching the summit of success doesn’t mean the journey ends—it’s simply an opportunity to recalibrate. What would you do if you no longer had to worry about money? What would you stop doing? These are the questions that help you define your next chapter.

Living intentionally means making choices that reflect your values, passions, and goals—not the expectations of others. Once you’ve defined what success means to you, the next step is living it every day.

Final thoughts

Simplifying, expanding, and defining success are not one-time decisions—they’re ongoing processes. By focusing on alignment, gratitude, and intentionality, you can create a business and life that feel purposeful, balanced, and uniquely yours.

What does success mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments or take the time to write your own “success list.” You might be surprised at what you discover.

Tired of chasing growth while losing your freedom? Apply for my private mentoring group and regain control of your online business.

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Grab your FREE copy of Work Less, Make More! James went from working a full-time job to running a profitable business, having the freedom to travel, surf and spend time with family, and in his book you will find everything you need to know about how you can actualize the life you want, so you too can finally work less, and make more!