CEO advice Archives - Thomas Michael - Founder Coach & Strategic Advisor

Scaling Myself Out of the Business: Lessons From Letting Go

I never planned to sell my company, but every business has an end. Scaling myself out taught me that the real challenge isn’t the exit itself – it’s what comes next.

For CEOs Intential Living Life by Design

My Not-To-Do List: What I’ve Stopped Doing to Start Living

Forget the to-do list. Here’s why building a not-to-do list – and sticking to it – changed everything for me. More clarity, more energy, more life.

Branding For CEOs

How to Start a Gin Brand (and Why You Should Stop Waiting for Perfect)

You don’t need a business plan, big budget, or even a clear endgame to start something new. Here’s how I launched my own gin brand – by just getting started, learning fast, and never waiting for perfect.

For CEOs Life by Design

Life by Design – How I built a Life of Purpose, Intent and Meaning

Most people drift through life. Here’s how Jack Daly’s Life by Design approach helped me live on purpose, track what matters, and build a year worth remembering.

For CEOs Intential Living Life by Design

Trading the New York Minute for the Mediterranean Hour

Most people chase speed and hustle, but a week in Crete taught me that building a business you can unplug from is the real win.

For CEOs Intential Living Life by Design

The Mirage of More: Dubai, Ambition, and What Really Matters

I spent a week in Dubai—land of endless hustle, luxury, and status. Instead of getting inspired to do more, I came home convinced that “more” isn’t better. Real success? It’s about knowing what’s enough and building a life that actually feels good, not just looks good.

For CEOs Intential Living Life by Design

The Hacker in Me

I used to think I was making progress. But really, I was just coasting. Especially when it came to drumming. Then a campmate sent me a short book that hit me square in the gut. It exposed the part of me that wants growth without grind – and reminded me that real mastery isn’t sexy. It’s boring. It’s repetitive. And it’s the only thing that actually works. Here’s what changed.