Trying to avoid being new to REI forever

[Michael Sabosky]

Howdy Y'all,

Over the past several years, I've had a deep desire to start my journey in REI (specifically commercial). Currently, I have a small residential solar sales business that has done alright. However, it is not what I want to be doing any longer and I've known this for some time. I have reached out to everyone in my circle to connect with people in commercial REI. I have also gone outside of my circle. I've offered to work for free many times. I've even gone door knocking to find someone/anyone in the business. I listen to podcasts, read books, forums, youtube, etc., but I still feel I'm not moving in a clear direction and am not much further than where I was 6 months ago. I hear about people constantly that got their start in REI because of the right people. I've contemplated spending $20-30k on coaching but every-time I'm about to pull the trigger, someone encourages me instead to work for a firm or keep growing my network to find the right people. Basically what I'm saying is- I feel stuck. I don't mind working for someone to learn, but is my approach wrong? I know so strongly what I want, but can't seem to find it. For anyone that can relate or understands this, what advice can you give me? A job and a steady paycheck isn't the goal, but is it smart to find a job in REI first? The thought of going any longer without taking the right action steps keeps me up at night.

Thanks, 

Mike

[Cody Lewis]

I can tell you everyone's journey is different. Some grew up in REI, some started small then scaled, and some others hired mentors. What is right for them may not be right for you. Reading your post, you seem incredibly motivated. There are some many options: work part time in both until you're on your feet in REI, go head first, etc. The net of it is, it sounds like you need to make a decision one way or another and move forward with it. Decisions are seen as good or bad in hindsight because we have perspective and information we don't have in the present. Personally, I like having a coach to help hold me accountable and push me when I may be dragging.