Most contractors start their business with one goal in mind: freedom. But somewhere along the way, the dream gets lost in the day-to-day grind. For Mike Abramowitz, Co-Founder of Better Than Rich and the son of an 84-year-old plumber still taking calls six days a week, that reality hit close to home. Watching his dad work himself into the ground made Mike ask: Is there another way?
The answer is yes. And Mike has spent the last decade proving it.
In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Mike shares how contractors can build systems that create predictable results, without being chained to their phones, trucks, or inboxes.
Why Most Contractors Get Stuck
Many tradespeople grew up watching the hustle. The long hours. The phone always in hand. It feels normal, until it breaks you. Mike knew that path wasn’t for him. After years in direct sales, he hired a business coach and began implementing systems that let his business run on its own.
But here’s where it gets real: when Mike’s son was born prematurely, he had to step away for 254 days. His business didn’t just survive, it thrived. All because it didn’t depend on him.
The Real Difference Between a Job and a Business
Mike puts it bluntly: “If your business can’t run without you, you don’t own a business. You own a job.”
So how do you fix that?
It starts with a framework. Mike developed what he calls the Time-Rich Six:
- Boundaries: Protect your time and priorities.
- Communication Guidelines: Teach your team how and when to get your attention.
- Systems: Build repeatable if/then processes.
- Playbooks: Document the steps clearly and simply.
- Team: Delegate to doers and experts.
- Tech: Automate wherever possible.
Each one is crucial, but together they build a business that works without you.
What Will It Take for You to Change?
Here’s the truth most contractors don’t want to hear: you’ll either build these systems now or be forced to build them later. Usually during a crisis.
Whether it’s illness, family emergency, or burnout, something will eventually force your hand. The smart move? Start now.
Want to see what’s possible in your business?
Mike is offering free GSD (Get Stuff Done) sessions where he builds actual systems with you. No sales pitch. No fluff.
Book your session at betterthanrich.com/gsd
Because the best time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.
Connect With Mike:
Website: https://betterthanrich.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeabramowitz1/
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