Pandemic or not, if you adjust your mindset you can still make money

BUSINESSMAN Joseph Costello was ‘blown away’ when he discovered that changing your mindset can not only transform your business – but also your life. Inspired by self-help gurus like Paul McKenna and Bob Proctor, he now provides a selfdevelopment and business mentoring service that he claims can help get us through the lockdown, mentally and financially.

What got you interested in the whole area of self-development?

Between the ages of 21 and 23, my mindset turned negative, I went down a self-destructive road mentally, suffering from depression and questioning where I was going in life. It was a difficult time; I didn’t think I was good enough and had no sense of direction in life.

In 2003, I watched a programme on TV by Paul McKenna – ‘How to change your life’ and I was blown away by it. I started reading more and became interested in selfdevelopment. I decided to invest more time, energy and money in my own self-development and haven’t looked back since. I met my mentor Bob Proctor in 2003.

Can you briefly describe your business journey?

In 2004 the opportunity came to purchase a limousine a friend was selling, so I went for it. My confidence was improving and by 2008, I had five limousines on the road. My fleet grew to 31 by 2013, when I bought my first commercial property, which subsequently led to (others). I now have several hundred thousand square feet of property.

What made you decide to get into mentoring?

Most people believe you need to be a business expert or have a very highlevel of education to be successful, but that is simply not true – I quickly realised not enough people are aware of the power of mindset. I wanted to share my story and help others.

As a mentor, what’s the most common piece of advice that can help turn a business around?

Too many people focus on what they don’t want, so they essentially get more of what they don’t want. Many of my clients come to me with the same issues; they are stuck or struggling to grow their business. I tell them to stop and take a step out. If you are too immersed in the day-today, you get burnt out and fail to see opportunities for growth. Have faith in others and learn to delegate, then you will see opportunities you didn’t see before. You need to be openminded and not limit yourself.

What do you say to businesses struggling in this pandemic?

I work with clients in areas that were hit particularly hard by the pandemic, such as hospitality, fitness and construction. However, they have all learned to focus on opportunity, as opposed to threats, by changing their mindset. They have looked at ways they can add services and do business differently – adapting. There are opportunities if you do your research and make sure you don’t limit yourself.

The whole self/business help movement is huge in the US and your own mentor Bob Proctor is well respected. But do you find resistance in Ireland?

I do think there is a certain level of skepticism; but what there has been is a huge shift in the number who now avail of mentoring services, particularly in Ireland. I believe it is something that will grow.

What do you say to doubters?

I have over 70 reviews on Google from people from all walks of life and business backgrounds that evidently show how they changed their life by adopting a mindset change!

How much can you save or make for a business?

The cost of mentoring is minuscule in relation to the value of them achieving their goals. My clients are doubling and tripling their income.

What was your own first paid work?

15 years of age, working in a coal yard for 150 (pounds!) per week.

What did your parents teach you about money?

I was brought up to believe that I had to work hard for money. My father had two jobs and I ended up having two jobs. Now I tell my clients you can work less and earn more – it took me a while to discover this myself but this is now my main mantra.

Have you ever struggled to make ends meet?

Yes, 2002 and 2003 were difficult as I struggled with my confidence.

Have you ever been paid silly money?

Define silly money? I’ve been underpaid at times, but I have also sold businesses for 7 and 8 figures.

What is the most expensive thing you bought for fun?

A Lamborghini.