Don’t Be Stupid and Lazy

If you’re young, don’t be stupid and lazy.

Actually, regardless of your age don’t be stupid and lazy.

I see it all the time and I saw it again this last week.

A young entrepreneur that decided to copy what someone else was doing (aka being stupid and lazy).

I know this young entrepreneur.

I wouldn’t say I know him REALLY well but I have a business relationship with him.

In fact, this young entrepreneur copied me and ripped me off.

Yep, I am his ‘victim’. Even though we have a great relationship and a legal document that says he cannot do that…

…He did it anyway.

Now, it actually doesn’t bother me to be copied and ripped off. It happens all of the time in business and you can either focus on that or focus on bigger and better things. I mean, don’t let them get a way with a crime but don’t give a bunch of time to an idiot that could be spent elsewhere.

What bothers me or what disappoints me is a better phrase is that he is being stupid and lazy.

1) He’s being stupid to actually think he understands exactly what it takes to run ALL sides of my business he is trying to copy and rip off.

2) He’s being lazy because clearly he is not willing to put in the time and effort to at least create his own version of what I’m doing.

Look, modeling is the highest form of flattery. Model me ALL you want.

But don’t copy me or rip me off (or anyone else) as it will only come back to bite you later and whatever success you have will be short lived.

How do I know that? A long time ago, I copied somebody.

Yep, I was young, stupid and lazy once.

In fact, I made millions copying this one thing. And then after about 2 years it all came crashing down on me.

Especially if you’re a young entrepreneur. Don’t do it. Its not worth it in the long run. Trust me. I know.

Create a real business that makes you happy that you created via your own blood, sweat and tears. It will be so much more rewarding and pay such a longer dividend.

Thanks for reading!

@jeffvacek