Let's Stop Pretending
I'm sick of Instagram "experts" selling the dream of 4-hour workdays to tradies. The reality? They’re either lying or losing money.
If you're running a legitimate construction business, especially if you're still on the tools, that's complete bulls**t.
The sooner you accept this reality, the sooner you can start making real changes that actually help.
The Reality of Construction
Our industry doesn't run on a neat 9 to 5 schedule.
- Concrete pouring is scheduled for dawn.
- Suppliers deliver late.
- Inspections get delayed.
One subbie falls behind, and next minute you're making calls at 8pm rescheduling tomorrow's trades.
Your choice? Work the hours needed or watch your timelines (and profit margins) blow out.
This isn't a "mindset" issue - it's the reality of building.
We Do This To Ourselves
We promise impossible timelines because we're scared of losing the job. Then we smash ourselves trying to meet them.
When problems inevitably arise, we sacrifice our weekends to catch up.
And those clients demanding instant responses to their weekend texts? Being their 24/7 building concierge wasn’t factored into your quote.
Burnout: The Silent Epidemic
Look around at your fellow builders and tradesmen. How many are running on energy drinks and servo pies? Or haven’t been to the gym in months?
How many have blown out their backs or their marriages, or haven't seen their kids awake in days?
This isn’t sustainable. Burnout is not a badge of honour. We need to get real about changing the way we operate.
What Actually Works
1) Quote longer timelines than you think you need.
Add 40% to your timeline. If you know a project will take you three weeks, tell the client it’ll take five. That way, even if you’re a week late, you’re still ahead with the client.
2) Establish firm boundaries with clients.
Put clauses in your contracts about your work hours and expectations for out-of-hours communication. Explain them to your clients. And stick to them.
3) Avoid total exhaustion.
Block out one afternoon every two weeks that's untouchable. Not for quotes, clients, or paperwork. This time is for you.
4) Raise your prices.
Charge enough that you can afford to hire help before you break yourself.
The real pros in this industry are the ones who've learned to say no, charge properly, and put their health first.
Thanks for reading!
Cheers,
Josh