The biggest obstacle holding contractors back isn’t competition, pricing, or even the labor shortage, it’s ego.
In this episode of the Construction Champions Podcast, Brad Huebner, founder of Hammer & Grind Podcast and The Profit Club, explains why so many contractors struggle for years and how the mindset shift from worker to business owner can change everything.
1. Ego is the Enemy of Growth
Many contractors believe they can "do it all" managing projects, handling clients, and running the business. But this mindset often leads to burnout and stagnation.
Why Ego Holds Contractors Back:
Refusing to Delegate: Trying to handle everything alone prevents business growth.
Fear of Change: Sticking with outdated practices limits innovation.
Ignoring Feedback: Ego can make contractors dismiss advice from peers, clients, or employees.
Takeaway: The first step toward building a thriving business is recognizing that you can’t do everything yourself.
2. Shift from Worker to Business Owner Mindset
Brad emphasizes a critical mindset shift: Stop identifying as a tradesperson and start thinking like a business owner.
Instead of saying, "I'm a deck builder," say, "I own a deck-building business."
Focus on leading the company rather than working in the field every day.
Prioritize business strategy, client relationships, and team development.
Takeaway: Successful contractors build scalable businesses, not just jobs for themselves.
3. Self-Mastery Drives Business Success
Brad believes that personal growth directly impacts business growth. Contractors who invest in themselves create stronger, more resilient companies.
Keys to Self-Mastery:
Continuous Learning: Stay updated on industry trends, technology, and business strategies.
Emotional Intelligence: Learn to manage stress, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts.
Time Management: Prioritize high-impact tasks instead of getting stuck in day-to-day operations.
Takeaway: Your business can only grow as much as you do. Self-improvement is non-negotiable.
4. Leadership Matters: Stop Running Jobs—Start Running a Company
Many contractors stay stuck because they focus on managing projects rather than leading their businesses.
How to Lead Effectively:
Hire and Trust Your Team: Build a reliable crew and empower them to take ownership.
Set Clear Expectations: Define roles, responsibilities, and project outcomes.
Focus on the Big Picture: Spend more time on strategy, client acquisition, and business development.
Takeaway: Great leaders don’t just build projects—they build teams and systems.
5. Invest in Coaching: Brad’s Turning Point
After nine years of struggle, Brad’s breakthrough came when he hired a business coach. Coaching provided:
Accountability: Someone to challenge limiting beliefs and push for growth.
Expert Guidance: Proven strategies tailored to the construction industry.
Mindset Shifts: Learning to think like a CEO, not just a contractor.
Takeaway: Every successful contractor has mentors. Investing in coaching accelerates growth.
Final Thoughts
The path to building a thriving construction business starts with overcoming ego, embracing leadership, and investing in personal growth.
Ego says: “I can do it all.”
Leadership says: “I will build a team and run a company.”
Want to break through the ceiling in your business? It starts with changing your mindset and leading with purpose.
Watch the full episode here:
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How Contractors Can Overcome Ego and Build Thriving Businesses. Insights from Brad Huebner
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