A Day in the Life of a Founder: How I Spend My Time Building a Business
By Faisale Shefawe
Published on 11/14/24
A few years ago, when former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz was asked about the reason for Starbucks’ success, his answer taught me a significant lesson in building a business. He said there isn’t a single action that creates a successful company—there are many elements that contribute to building a great business.
As I work to grow FSX Management, I make it a priority to use my time wisely, ensuring each day’s tasks move me closer to my goals. Nowadays, every minute is dedicated to building my business.
The first thing I do in the morning, after making a cup of coffee, is watch the news. Staying informed is essential for business owners—understanding new policies, economic conditions, and market trends helps me anticipate and navigate changes. It’s tough to run a business without understanding politics and economics.
Around 10:00 AM, I leave for work. During the Uber ride, I listen to podcasts to expand my knowledge on various topics. I often tune into “The Herd by Colin Cowherd” for NBA or NFL updates, which provides a welcome mental break from my busy life.
Once I arrive at the office, I check the FSX Management website to ensure it’s functioning well and visually appealing. A strong website presence is crucial in today’s digital age, as it reflects the company's products, culture, and vision.
After checking the website, I review my planner to organize my day’s projects. Currently, the FSXR1 project, FSX Management’s first fund to open Ethiopian restaurant in Virginia, takes up most of my time. The goal is to open over 25 locations in the next decade, alongside other projects in technology and entertainment.
I believe in taking breaks; continuous work can be counterproductive. I step out every few hours, often heading to Starbucks or Gregorys Coffee nearby for a latte. These short breaks help me stay focused and energized.
I work on projects until lunch, and I’m fortunate to have many great restaurants within walking distance in DC. I often choose Sweetgreen or Cava, as a healthy diet allows me to work longer, think clearly, and feel my best.
After lunch, I make important calls to clients, potential investors, and prospective podcast guests. Building a business requires a strong network of supportive and inspiring people. I aim to connect with new people daily, knowing they are critical to my success.
After work, I typically go to the gym unless I have dinner plans with a client or friend. I try to work out five or six times a week, prioritizing health as a key component of success. If I miss a workout, it’s because of an important meeting or event.
My lifestyle isn’t perfect, but I’m always looking for ways to improve it to better support my business goals. I believe any business can succeed if you stay dedicated, persistent, healthy, and make the best use of your time.
