Pick’n Love

Heart Inspiration always comes at the right time! Earlier this week I had the opportunity to attend a talk by Raymond Ackerman, founder of the largest South African supermarket chain Pick & Pay. I left feeling so inspired by what this 81-year old heart-centered entrepreneur shared with us, that I thought I shared some of his ideas with you.

First, he shared the secret to starting a successful business: 90% Passion and 10% Capital. Get that? Passion – which comes from connecting deeply with our hearts is 90% of the game! So, if you’re one of those people who is waiting until you have the money to start a business or take that trip you’ve been longing for, it is your heart that is going to get you there!  Powerful.  

The second idea he shared is that success is like a four-legged table where the consumer sits at the top of the table. The more these four legs are in balance, the stronger and more succesful the business.  What are these four legs?

1. Administration. This refers to the mechanics of running the business, as well as all the planning and philosophy behind why you do what you do. 

2. Product. Do you have a product that solves a problem? According to Mr. Ackerman, once your product addresses a specific need, it has to be like Marilyn Monroe Miller: “desirable, openly displayed and readily accessible”. That earned him the biggest laugh, of couse.

3. Advertising and Social Responsibility. He regarded advertising and social responsibility as two sides of the same coin, and the maxim “doing good is good business” underpins all of Pick & Pay’s social investment initiatives. The more you give to others, the more you’ll receive. Are you starting to feel the love?

4. People. Your team is most important!  If you take care of them, their needs, their wants, the more they will take care of you and develop a stronger sense of belonging.  Nearly 80% of Pick & Pay employees have acquired shares to date!

So my question to you is, how can you take these simple yet profound ideas to take your heart inspired business, family, and intimate relationships to the next level? Take the plunge! Dare to live from the passion of your heart!