Month: July 2025

No Pressure = No Growth

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In this video, I share a recent personal experience that reminded me of something we all know deep down but don’t always want to face – real growth usually comes with a bit of pressure.

Whether it’s growing your business, improving your leadership, getting fitter, or becoming a better parent, progress rarely happens when you’re comfortable. We often say we want to improve, but without the right motivation or accountability, it’s easy to stay stuck where we are.

Recently, a fellow coach challenged me to start running regular business education events. To be honest, I pushed back for months. I had every excuse under the sun – timing, logistics, school sport, you name it. But after talking it through with my coach, I realised that with a few simple adjustments, I actually could make it work. I just needed someone to push me a little.

The takeaway is this – I would never have made that shift on my own. That little bit of pressure created clarity and action.

If there’s something you want to grow in (your business, your mindset, or your personal goals) I encourage you to find a way to add that pressure. A coach, a peer group, or even a supportive partner can be exactly what helps move you forward.

And if you’re ready for that kind of support, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out any time.

Hugh Bowman
Business Coach, ActionCOACH Geelong
0409 402 474

Investments That I Love For Tradies

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In this video, I’m sharing the four types of investments I love for tradies who want to start putting their money to work but don’t have time to study markets all day.

Over the years, I’ve had this conversation with a lot of clients: “Where should I invest?” The truth is, unless you’re an expert in shares or finance, there are a few solid options that can set you up well without needing a degree in economics.

Here are the four I break down:

  1. Property: You already know it. You’ve worked on it. It’s a great long-term play (especially with the current housing shortage).

  2. Machinery: If you’re hiring gear all the time, owning your own and charging it out can give you strong returns, I’m talking 20%+ in some cases.

  3. Super: Not sexy, but smart. Most tradies don’t have nearly enough in their super. A good fund like Australian Super can quietly build your future in the background.

  4. Shares & ETFs: If you’re new to shares, ETFs and low-risk index options can be a safe entry point with decent long-term returns.

In the video, I walk through what kind of returns each investment might offer and more importantly, how to make sure you actually have the profit to invest in the first place.

Because that’s what I really do: I help tradies grow profitable, structured businesses so they can build real wealth, not just income.

If you’re ready to take that next step, let’s chat.

Hugh Bowman
Business Coach, ActionCOACH Geelong
0409 402 474

Why Holidays Are Great for Business – with Hugh Bowman

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In this video, I’m sharing something a bit different – why taking holidays has become one of the best things I do for my business.

Every time I take a proper break like last week’s trip to Mt Hotham with my five boys, I come back clearer, sharper, and more energised than ever. But more than that, I always seem to learn, realise big ideas, attract unexpected leads, and return refreshed and ready to make big changes.

Here’s what I’ve noticed after years of doing this:

  • LEARN: I set myself up to learn while I’m away (yes, even if my kids have to listen to Jim Rohn in the car!)

  • REALISE: I have those lightbulb moments when I finally slow down – whether I’m on a chairlift or holding a fishing rod

  • LEADS: I get surprising leads out of nowhere (I don’t know why, but it always happens)

  • REFRESHED: I come back with energy and perspective I just can’t access when I’m stuck in the daily grind

If you’re running a business, especially as a tradie or hands-on owner, I really encourage you to plan your holidays well in advance and take more of them! They’re not time away from your business… they’re fuel for what’s next.

Take the break. You (and your business) will be better for it.

– Hugh