Bulletproof Investing

CHAPTER 4Mindset: the game changer

I started working for my uncle and, more broadly, the JLF group of companies on 10 May 2010. My responsibilities were far-reaching: assisting the legal team to prepare contracts, leases, employment agreements and even the odd litigation matter. I recall asking my bosses what my title was, to which they responded, ‘There really isn't one, so you can give yourself whatever title you want.’ I went home that night and brainstormed with Dad, eventually settling on ‘Acquisitions Expediter' — Dad's suggestion, not mine!

‘An expediter speeds thing up, makes things more efficient and gets things done,’ my father explained, sensing I might have a few reservations.

It made sense, despite being a little cornball — and truth be told, I enjoyed the uniqueness and underlying meaning.

At the start of each week, I was given a list of things to do. I'd tell my boss when I was finished and he would identify additional tasks. I found myself becoming more and more efficient.

One day, John's personal assistant called in sick, so I was asked to fill in for her. John had me doing research, taking minutes of meetings, writing letters and responding to emails (he had an email address, but no computer!). Gaining exposure to a day in the life of a CEO, property developer and entrepreneur was invaluable. John's working world was fascinating. Soon enough, I moved to five days a week, with some flexibility to duck off during the day to attend university lectures. I found ...