I recently bought a new house and it has everything I’ve ever wanted—and more. A view, a good size lot, a basement and even spiral staircases. As I toured the home with my realtor—who has been looking for a space like this for a few years for me—my eyes were focused like a cat hunting prey. Everything looked great. It was clean, organized and well laid out, so I bought it.

Since the owner was moving out of the country I made on offer on some of the furnishings and to my surprise, they accepted and said I could have it all. That’s where the fun began. They gave me a very fast 3-week close, said they would get rid of any clutter, and handed over the keys.

As I opened the door on the first day, the house was still clean and organized like the first day I saw it. I was impressed until I opened the first drawer in the kitchen — it was full, as was the next one and the next one after. Not with a few forks and knives, but with the previous owner’s entire life. This went on from room to room, filled with towels, clothes, and a long list of odd items (e.g. nearly 100 twist ties from the grocery store).

It’s been 3 weeks now and I just brought the first few pieces of my furniture over to the house. I filled 6 large trashcans, an 18-foot enclosed trailer for charity, and a 26-foot truck for storage just to get their left belongings out of here.

I’m not complaining; it was a great lesson in observation for me. What I didn’t see has caused the delays in the transition. These are the things that can make the selling of your business or the buying of another a real headache.

When was the last time you went through not just your inventory, but the drawers, files, and closets in your space and gotten rid of extraneous junk? This, in my opinion, is an important part to keeping business running smoothly, and getting ready for the future sale or passing on of your company. Dedicate a few hours of each week to tying up loose ends, clearing out that junk drawer, and simplifying the extraneous. In the end, you’ll thank yourself.

Happy Cleaning and Retailing-
Moe Lastfogel
moe@retailobserver.com

“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” -Babe Ruth

Over the years, I've come to realize how much of an influence my father has had on shaping the person I am. The qualities and traits that have been passed down are absolutely invaluable: my persistence, endurance, self confidence, work ethic, and courage, just to name a few. June has me reflecting on father figures — whether it be your father, uncle, grandfather, neighbor, godfather, close friend, boss. Who has been that male mentor for you?

In my family, they know I can be stubborn! Most of the time, I am proud to say that's a good thing. Growing up I was encouraged to get back up after failure and try again, to never take no for an answer. It has given me the determination to reach goals in my life and make things happen no matter the challenge. I am inspired by my father and can say that because of him, I never give up.

Is a father figure flawless and always exemplifying perfection? No, they are still human. Fathers are also imperfect — and how they embody that imperfection is what matters. Seeking excellence, not perfection, being open to growth and new knowledge — to understand the unknown is one of the most important traits of them all.

From a father figure to a child, so much of learning happens through modeled behavior. How much is unsaid and just observed? Children pattern behaviors at home both consciously and subconsciously. The same could be said for employees in the workplace, learning from their bosses. Are you modeling honesty, pride, fortitude, and a strong work ethic?

This month I am grateful for all my father has modeled for me and for the men in my life that have inspired and encouraged both me and my children, just as fathers everywhere are doing for their own children and many other kids.

Happy Fathers Day!
Eliana Barriga
eliana@retailobserver.com