When exciting new ideas/ventures present themselves, challenge the fit first, and then the fundamentals. Both must be a match for exponential success.

The financial end of an analysis means nothing if you don’t have the right team, and if you cannot envision being the best in the marketplace.   A good example is my wife Kristen’s bridal shop (Vocellesbridal.com).   She had the idea and what was the first thing I did?  I ran numbers and created a proforma – it passed that test.   Next – she had never worked retail and I knew for certain I was not able or passionate about being involved in the day to day operations myself (although I did sell the second dress ever!).   So what gave me the confidence that it would be a good fit for her and our family?  It was her care for people and how compassionate she is.  She is not a financial person or a sales person….she just cares and and it is genuine and absolute.   Nothing was more important for that business because her having that is what is required for the financials to work, for her to push forward as a working mom, work Saturday’s, etc.

Just remember that the fit and passion drive the numbers – make sure you have that first!