Running the Wharf to Wharf race in Santa Cruz, CA, has been a cherished tradition for me over the years. This iconic six-mile run from the Santa Cruz beach to Capitola is known for its live music, stunning views, and a guaranteed fun day. But for me, it’s more than just a race—it’s a journey filled with lessons that resonate deeply in business ownership, particularly franchising. Here are my top 10 lessons from the race course and how they apply to franchising:
1. Be Kind In a race limited to 16,000 participants, kindness becomes essential. From letting faster runners pass or helping someone who stumbles, kindness fosters a supportive environment. I’m in Corral C, where the pace is slower, but the camaraderie is strong. In franchising, kindness translates to excellent customer service and building strong community relations. Treating customers and employees respectfully creates loyalty, retains talent, and builds a positive reputation.
2. Set a Goal Every year, I set personal goals for the race—sometimes, it’s beating my previous time, and other times, it’s just about finishing and enjoying the experience. In business, setting clear, achievable goals is crucial. Whether it’s financial targets, customer satisfaction benchmarks, or community engagement objectives, goals guide daily operations and long-term strategies. In franchising, having defined goals keeps you focused and motivated.
3. Be Prepared Preparation is key to a successful race. Knowing the route, where the water stations are, and even the location of the porta-potties can make a big difference. Similarly, in franchising, preparation involves thorough research, understanding your customer base, and financial planning. As a franchise consultant, I guide candidates through a comprehensive investigation process—meeting the franchisor’s team, attending “Meet the Team” days, and more. This preparation ensures you’re ready for success.
4. Recruit Friends and Family Having friends and family cheer you on, or even join the race, adds an extra layer of joy. In franchising, involving loved ones can create a supportive environment and even lead to a family-run business. Many franchisees find that working with family strengthens the business and creates a shared sense of purpose and pride.
5. Celebrate Success Crossing the finish line, regardless of your time, is a moment to celebrate. In franchising, it’s vital to celebrate milestones—whether it’s hitting sales targets, opening a new location, or receiving positive customer feedback. Celebrating success boosts morale and motivates the team to keep striving for excellence. Imagine being awarded “Rookie of the Year” or the “President’s Award” at your franchisor’s annual convention.
6. Save Your Race Bibs and Write Your Time on the Back I’ve always kept my race bibs as a reminder of each race’s unique challenges and triumphs. It’s a simple way to track my progress and reflect on my achievements. In business, keeping detailed records is just as important. Whether it’s tracking sales figures, customer feedback, or community engagement, these records serve as a valuable tool for measuring growth and success. When it comes time to sell your business, having a well-documented history can significantly increase its value. Just like looking back at race bibs helps me see my improvements, your business records will highlight the strengths and achievements that make your business an attractive investment for potential buyers.
7. Cheer on Others The Wharf to Wharf race is known for its supportive atmosphere, with runners and spectators cheering each other on. A supportive network of fellow franchisees can provide invaluable advice and encouragement. Franchise owners often share best practices and strategies, creating a community of mutual support.
8. Support the Cause Each year, the Wharf to Wharf race supports various charitable causes, reminding us of the importance of giving back. In franchising, corporate social responsibility is a significant aspect. Many franchise brands engage in community service and charitable initiatives, which not only help the community but also enhance the brand’s reputation.
9. Running Creates a Bond The camaraderie among runners is one of the most rewarding aspects of the race. In franchising, connecting with other franchisees and industry professionals fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose. These relationships can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and new opportunities.
10. Have Fun! Take Pictures! Enjoy the Day! The Wharf to Wharf race celebrates life, fitness, and community. In franchising, it’s essential to find joy in the journey of business ownership. Celebrate your achievements, enjoy the relationships you build, and take pride in your business’s positive impact on the community. Running the Wharf to Wharf race has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, community, and the joy of achieving personal goals. These lessons are just as applicable to business ownership.
These principles can guide you if you’re considering taking the plunge into franchising. Let’s explore how you can achieve your dreams and build a successful future through franchising.