Running a successful payment gateway that serves tens of thousands of merchants and millions of their clients is no small feat. Over nearly twenty years, I’ve learned some hard truths about what it takes to succeed—not just in business, but in life.
I’ll be the first to admit I’m far from perfect. But when it comes to keeping my company alive and highly profitable, I’ve made management calls—right or wrong—that have sustained us through challenges and opportunities alike. In my experience, success boils down to a few key principles, and at the top of the list is having the courage to make tough decisions, even when the outcome is uncertain.
The Courage to Decide
In business, you can’t afford to hesitate. The market doesn’t wait, and neither do your competitors. Making decisions, especially difficult ones, is a constant. Some will be wrong—there’s no avoiding that. But what separates the successful from the stagnant is the ability to dust yourself off, learn, and make the next call.
As a leader, this requires resilience and focus, both of which stem from a deeper foundation: your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The Power of Physical Fitness
Staying headstrong in business starts with being in peak condition, both mentally and physically. For me, that means regular High-Intensity Training (HIT), like CrossFit, even when I’m traveling. No excuses. Physical discipline fuels mental discipline, and the confidence I build in the gym carries over to the boardroom.
I also practice Bujutsu, a demanding martial art that combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern elements like boxing and ground fighting. As a 3rd-degree black belt, I’m not just training for self-defense—I actively spar with others who push my limits. This intense physical regimen sharpens my mind, keeps me grounded, and builds a confidence that translates directly into business decisions.
The Impact of a Clean Diet
Physical fitness doesn’t stop at the gym; what you put into your body is just as important as how you train it. A clear mind starts with a clean diet. For me, that means avoiding heavily processed foods, artificial additives, sugars, high carbohydrates, and greasy meals. These types of foods cloud your mind, sap your energy, and dull your focus.
I’ve taken my diet seriously over the years, experimenting with different approaches to optimize my physical and mental performance. I’ve practiced intermittent fasting, fasted for several days at a time, and even adopted the carnivore diet, which I’m currently following. This diet—focused on consuming nutrient-dense animal products—has helped me lean out and further refine my muscle mass. Maintaining discipline in what I eat not only sharpens my mind but also ensures my body is ready to handle the challenges of a demanding business world.
Mental Clarity Through Reflection
Physical strength is only part of the equation. Equally important is mental clarity. I make time to disconnect from the noise of life and listen to the cosmos—or simply gaze at the stars in silence. These moments of stillness allow me to reset, clear my mind, and regain focus. In the chaos of running a business, this practice has been invaluable.
Faith and Family as Anchors
At the core of everything I do is my faith. I allow God to guide me, and I never question His plan. This trust in something greater than myself gives me the strength to face challenges with courage and peace.
My family is my backbone, providing unwavering support no matter how risky or costly my decisions may seem. Even in the face of losses—and believe me, there are more losses than wins—they stand by me. Their faith in me strengthens my own resolve, creating a ripple effect that bolsters the entire business.
The Balance of Strength, Stability, and Discipline
In the end, success isn’t just about strategies or market trends; it’s about staying fit—mentally, physically, and spiritually. When you’re out of shape in any aspect, it impacts your decision-making, your confidence, and the confidence others have in you.
Diet, fitness, and focus are non-negotiable. They fuel the energy and clarity needed to lead effectively. If there’s one lesson I hope to impart, it’s this: take care of yourself, inside and out. Business is tough, but when you’re prepared—when you project strength, peace, and confidence—you create the foundation for lasting success.
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-Lonnie Passoff
Founder and President
About the Author:
Lonnie Passoff started the first-ever internet-only eDebit processing gateway in 2008. A veteran of the United States Army, he has become a multi-millionaire through honest, smart business practices. He frequently speaks at business conventions and is a paid advisor to multiple corporations. He has held seats on the boards of corporations and non-profits, including a Clean Ocean Initiative in the Caribbean.
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