Running a trades business is demanding. But when “I never take a day off” becomes a lifestyle, it’s time to ask—at what cost?

In this episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System, Dominic Rubino talks with coach and entrepreneur Fyfe Barraclough about the mindset and systems behind freedom in business.

The Entrepreneurial Trap

Most contractors hustle hard to build their business—but then get stuck in the same patterns. They’re the expert. They’re the bottleneck. And they can’t let go.

Why Delegation Is So Hard

Fyfe explains that delegation isn't just tactical—it’s emotional. Often, it's fear of losing control or damaging your reputation that keeps you from handing things off.

“We don’t avoid the thing—we avoid how the thing makes us feel.” – Fyfe Barraclough

The Power of Mental Fitness

Fyfe introduces the idea of mental fitness—operating from a place of calm, clarity, and strength instead of survival mode. Learn to shift from Darth Vader to Jedi.

How to Break the Loop

You don’t need 40 hours to build a system. Start small:

• Block a half-day and protect it
  
  
• Write down your "I can't because..." list
  
  
• Practice being uncomfortable in new tasks
  
  

Practical Tools

• Hire an office manager or EA
  
  
• Build reporting structures that give you clarity
  
  
• Create accountability systems—even if it’s just a friend or coach
  
  

‍More about Fyfe Barraclough: LinkedIn | Fyfe Coaching | Fyfe Coaching LinkedIn

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