“I did a lot… I just don’t know what”


​Hello Reader,​

1. A quick word from Zach

If your week keeps getting swallowed by fires, the problem may not be that everything is important. It may be that the loudest things are getting to choose your priorities.

video preview

2. Something worth listening to

This throwback EntreLeadership episode is a great companion to this week’s thought. Dan Heath makes the case that if your workday is constantly consumed by fires, the wiser move is not just to react faster, but to move upstream and prevent the same problems from returning.

3. Something worth thinking about

The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

~ Proverbs 21:5

4. Something worth trying

For the next two weeks, track every fire that demands your attention: the interruptions, urgent issues, repeated problems, and last-minute rescues.

Then use this Fire Review worksheet to rank them, look for patterns, and identify where you need to build a better system instead of just putting out another fire.


That's a wrap. Have a great week.

To thriving,

Zach Wise

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What is "Dear Sam", anyway? This column started with a real person — a friend and client named Sam. I write each issue with him in mind, and with you in mind, too.

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Dear Sam

Weekly encouragement and practical business wisdom for Christian business men who want to lead well, steward wisely, and build businesses that leave room for life.

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