Know When to Fail

Hi Reader,

Welcome to Your Dose of Mana — a quick, weekly note with:
1 real story
1 leadership insight
1 practical takeaway

This week’s story: Know When to Fail

1 Real Story
I’ve had a very circuitous, nonlinear career. I’ve been bold and said yes to opportunities because they were exciting, interesting, gave me the chance to work with someone I admired, or took me to a part of the country (or world) I wanted to explore.

People sometimes look at my background and are perplexed. Others get it. For me, it’s never been about the industry — I’ve never worked in the same one twice. It’s about what the opportunity, the challenge. I’m known for creating order out of chaos, connecting with people quickly, gaining trust, and driving change.

In business, as in life, not every situation works out. Take Just Meditate, my main stream meditation studio in Bethesda. The concept was a success in LA (natch) and I loved everything I created — the branding, the build-out, the roster of instructors, the loyal client list.

Three people stand in front of an acrylic sign with a blue pause button and writing just behind their heads. - The woman on the left is attractive with a lovely smile, long shoulder-length hair, a white top, and black pants with a chunky beaded necklace. - The African American man is in the middle wearing a black leather moto jacket with several chains around his neck. - The third person is a Caucasian female with light brown shoulder-length hair. She is smiling in a dark top and a gray patterned skirt. — Angie Goff, Ofosu Jones-Quartey, and Me

I gave it a year and the numbers just weren’t there. I could’ve kept going but it didn’t make financial sense. So, I called the code. I did it the right way: ensured all vendors and staff were paid, gave clients notice, exited clean.

After friends and family kept asking if I was okay. Truthfully? I felt great. I made the right decision. I felt good about what I did and how I did it. All of it. Then a few years later when Covid hit, I knew I’d saved myself from being completely crushed.

1 Leadership Insight
Entrepreneurs and leaders often think, “If I just try one more thing…” But knowing when to fail — when to call it — is just as important as knowing how to succeed. Walking away can be the most strategic move you make.

1 Practical Takeaway

Look honestly at where your energy and resources are going.
If something isn’t serving your people, your business, or yourself, don’t be afraid to stop.
To be clear is to be kind — even to yourself.

See you next week with another Dose.

– Amy

Even though this is a “mass email” I mean it when I say—let me know what you are up to. Reply, book a Zoom, pick up the phone. I’d love to catch up.

I’ve so enjoyed hearing from those who have taken the time to reach out!

Thanks for letting me show up in your inbox.
We’ll do this again next Thursday.

More joy. Less friction. Always.
—Amy

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