October 12, 2024

Star Principle Seminar 2.0

Richard Koch, the 80/20 Principle, the Star Principle, the Algarve. Dream come true!

Star Principle Seminar 2.0

10 years ago I was signed up for the Star Principle Seminar 1.0 in Chicago. But by the time it came in October 2014 Tiffany was not doing well and I stayed home to care for her.

When I found out Perry was putting another one together, and this time it would be in the Algarve in Portugal and we were going to visit Richard's house, I really wanted to come and get closure on that desire from 10 years ago.

Mitzi was very supportive as always.

So after teaching at the Lifestyles Expo last Saturday we caught a flight from Dallas to Heathrow overnight. We were fortunate to travel business class and it was nice to have a lay-down seat.

Mitzi got this picture of me right after I woke up – sleepy!

Our flight the next day from Heathrow to Faro, Portugal was a bit grueling as we were pretty tired. We arrived at our hotel around 7:30p. Then we noticed thousands of ants crawling around the room after we got settled.

The only room the hotel had available was the Villa Indigo, which happened to be their largest villa. A 3 bedroom beautiful place with a huge private pool. So it all worked out well 😄

The next morning I went to the meeting and met Richard Koch. I've read many of his books and have been highly influenced by them. His "The 80/20 Principle" is how I govern my life and time. My freedom and effectiveness is largely because I've implemented 80/20 in many parts of my life.

It was great to meet him and listen to him talk about the Star Principle.

Mitzi enjoyed some quiet time at the hotel during the days while I was in the meeting. The property at the Octant Vila Monte is beautiful and peaceful.

In the late afternoon we went over to Richard's house. I've been wanting to visit there for 11 years and it was wonderful to finally get the chance.

Richard spends a lot of time at his fish pond when he's doing his most important and productive work – thinking. So it was fun to see it in real life.

We enjoyed visiting in his yard then headed over to Antonio's restaurant for a 3 hour dinner with the group.

The next morning I had breakfast out on the patio, then spent the day back in meeting with the group and Richard. We talked about our businesses and explored others businesses. I really love these types of events where we dive deep in business strategy and exploration.

In the late evening we drove out to the Salt Pans and walked for miles.

Mitzi was quick with the camera and captured me walking along with Richard.

In the evening we went back to Antonio's for dinner again.

The third and last day was a bit rainy. After Perry and Richard did consultations during the morning, we headed out to tour a vineyard called Quinta da Tor.

They had some activities for us to do, including making something out of bread dough.

They fed us different appetizers like sausage.

Here's a picture a Alex. He's from Russia and lives in Canada. We had some really nice conversations and we formed a connection.

In the evening we transferred to the Conrad Algarve and since it was my birthday, they had a birthday cake ready for me in the room.

Participating in this Star Principle Seminar was a real highlight for me. Talking business and meeting successful business people is something I love doing. My social shyness didn't prevent me from getting to know people and enjoying the experience.