You know that sinking feeling when you realize you’ve been ignoring great advice or giving up on something that actually worked? We’ve all been there, myself included. That’s why I loved this conversation with Matt Nettleton.

As my most frequent podcast guest, Matt brought his signature blend of insight and candor to our “What Went Wrong?” series. Together, we revisited the missteps that taught us valuable lessons—like ditching a successful accountability group, setting goals that feel more like a prison sentence than a roadmap, and stubbornly resisting good advice. If you’ve ever tripped over your own decisions, this one’s for you.

Actionable Takeaways

1. Stick With What Works: If a process, group, or habit is driving success, don’t abandon it just because things are going smoothly. Consistency beats complacency.
2. Shrink Your Timeframe: Break those massive annual goals into manageable chunks. Try a “12-week year” approach to stay motivated, track progress, and pivot as needed.
3. Listen to Advice (Even When It’s Hard): Pay attention to the advice of trusted colleagues and mentors—and maybe your spouse, too. The sooner you act on good suggestions, the faster you’ll see results.
4. Celebrate and Course-Correct: Mark your milestones, reassess your direction, and give yourself permission to change the plan if it’s no longer serving you.

Matt Nettleton

Matt is my sales coach. I loved his direct, no nonsense, slightly sarcastic approach.  He taught me how to ask the right questions, listen to the answers, and lead prospective customers to their own conclusions, and how to ask for the sale and charge what my services were really worth.

Over the years, we have spoken hundreds of times.  Fortunately, some of my favorite conversations occurred while the microphone was turned on.  Find those earlier conversations

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