business risks Archives - Eric P. Butts

January 20, 2016 by Eric Butts Leave a Comment

Shark Tank and the Importance of (Realistic) Self-Perception

You need to watch Shark Tank.

I know I’ve said it before, but you seriously should give it a shot if you haven’t seen an episode.

Aside from the entertainment value of my favorite shark Kevin “Mr. Wonderful” O’ Leary, I learn something new or am reminded of key business lessons practically every time I watch.

This weekend, I ended up catching up on the last two episodes. On each episode, an entrant into the Shark Tank stood out for their self-perception, but for completely opposite reasons. [Read more…]

November 30, 2014 by Eric Butts Leave a Comment

Some Risks Just Aren’t Worth Taking (in Business and Life)

I did something incredibly stupid last night.

I almost can’t believe did it, not because I don’t make stupid mistakes but because the one I’m about to tell you about had such an easy solution.

After spending most of the day at home, my wife and I decided to take the kids to Rockin’ Jump, a trampoline park not far from our house. This time my wife even wanted to jump with the kids, which we don’t usually do.

It started out amazing, all of us jumping together and working up a sweat. I even decided to try my hand at the foam pit. If you’ve never been to one of these places, the foam pit is filled with foam cushions. What I didn’t realize is just how deep it is. [Read more…]