From Challenges to Champions: An Exclusive Conversation with Craig Shults

Meet Craig Shults: The Resilient Entrepreneur with a Vision: Craig Shults, originally from the scenic Mohawk Valley in Upstate New York, embodies resilience, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of self-betterment. Now based in Orange County, California, Craig’s life has been a tapestry of successes and setbacks that have shaped him into a driven entrepreneur and finance expert. Having earned multiple degrees and certificates, including an Associate’s in General Business and a Paralegal Certificate from Blackstone Career Institute, his story is one of evolution and lifelong learning.

Professionally, he has held various roles, from insurance agent to home improvement sales leader, and now serves as Controller and CFO at JSL Construction. Beyond his professional endeavors, Craig dedicates his time to fitness, traveling, cooking, and supporting causes like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. His journey has been filled with reinvention, strategic pivots, and a firm commitment to personal values like honesty, integrity, and discipline.

How has your experience shaped your current outlook on success and failure?

My outlook has been profoundly shaped by both my accomplishments and my adversities. Success, to me, isn’t just about wealth or status. It’s about the number of people who benefit from what I do. Failure, on the other hand, is inevitable but essential. Each failure taught me adaptability. It gave me the courage to re-strategize and the wisdom to know when to pivot. My setbacks made me more resilient, and they underscored the importance of staying true to my core values.

What led you to pursue such a diverse academic background, and how does it influence your work today?

Lifelong learning has always been a cornerstone of my philosophy. After earning my AA in General Business from Taft College, I felt a need to broaden my perspective, which led to additional degrees in Sociology and American Studies. This diverse academic background allows me to approach challenges from various angles, considering not only the financial and operational aspects but also the human and societal factors. At JSL Construction, it helps me make well-rounded decisions that take into account both business needs and community impact.

You speak about overcoming obstacles with a certain resolve. What’s your secret to staying focused under pressure?

Honestly, meditation is a game-changer for me. It gives me the clarity to dissect any situation, leaving emotions aside so I can focus purely on strategy. When pressure mounts, I conduct a thorough self-evaluation, set aside any preconceived notions, and draft a solution that addresses the root of the issue. Staying disciplined and grounded in my values of honesty and integrity keeps me on the right path, even when times get tough.

How do you identify gaps in the marketplace, and what’s your process for developing solutions?

I start with observation. Every idea begins with seeing something that isn’t working as it should or noticing a need that isn’t being met. The key is to visualize how to bridge that gap. But visualization alone isn’t enough. I take a very methodical approach: research, strategize, apply, and then refine based on feedback. My experience in finance and home improvement sales has honed my ability to create solutions that are both practical and impactful. Execution is where the magic happens.

You’ve faced significant financial and personal setbacks. What keeps you going?

It’s my drive to create and leave a positive mark. I have an intrinsic motivation that refuses to let setbacks define me. My family, the people who believe in me, and my desire to see my ideas manifest into something real and beneficial keep me going. I’ve learned that challenges are temporary, but the impact I can make has the potential to be lasting.

What role does giving back to the community play in your life?

Giving back is a non-negotiable part of my life. Supporting organizations like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation gives me a sense of purpose beyond business. It also reminds me that, despite my setbacks, I’m in a position to help others. These causes are close to my heart, and I believe that philanthropy is a vital component of a successful life. It’s a way to ensure that my work is meaningful and that my impact stretches beyond myself.

With so many interests and responsibilities, how do you maintain balance in your life?

Balance is critical, and it’s something I actively work on. I’m a firm believer in the harmony between personal and professional life. For me, this means carving out time for things that nourish my soul—whether it’s cooking up a new dish, hitting the gym, or meditating to center myself. It’s also about being present with my loved ones and making sure that both sides of my life are flourishing and fulfilling.

What advice would you give to someone looking to rebuild their life after a significant setback?

First, take responsibility for where you are, without blaming others. Then, give yourself permission to start over. It’s okay to reinvent yourself as many times as necessary. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision, and don’t be afraid to invest in your growth. Most importantly, never lose your sense of purpose and your drive. The comeback is always stronger than the setback if you remain committed and disciplined.

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