A relationship-based business model can lead to financial freedom
Jono and Kirsty Rowe have achieved what many only dream of—financial freedom, a thriving family, and a legacy of success to leave behind. As the founders of TJKR Group, a host of successful businesses, Jono and Kirsty make their own schedules and set their own goals—a lifestyle that allows them to spend quality time with each other and their four children every day.
By embracing faith, positivity, and family, the couple has experienced stellar growth, becoming leaders in their community and rising stars in New Zealand. Now, they enjoy mentoring other couples on how to break out of the 9-5 “rat race” and sharing with them the importance of legacy.
But Jono and Kirsty weren’t always on a path to financial freedom. Like many, they began by juggling family life and long hours at work. They spent their free time in front of screens, too knackered for much else.
How did Jono and Kirsty Rowe go from 80 hr+ workweeks to financial independence?
A Journey to Financial Freedom
The Rowes’ journey to financial freedom began with an epiphany. Jono arrived home from work in the early hours of the morning after an especially long day. He found his young son Jasper’s toys on the floor and Kirsty fast asleep.
“This is my future,” he thought. A family man who never sees his family. “I decided to change in that moment.”
He left his corporate job as an accountant at the prestigious Accounting firm Ernst & Young. He and Kirsty dedicated themselves to a new type of business model based on relationships.
Mentorship had been incredibly important in their lives. They’d benefited from close relationships with mentors in the past who had shown them that there was another way to live life. Now, they were ready to take control of their future and found a business aligned with their values.
Freedom, Legacy, Leadership
When Jono and Kirsty Rowe started working for themselves, they had a goal: to spend more time together and with their children. This is the cornerstone of a life well-lived. But they knew that their values were more than just a part-time endeavor. Why not take the values that make a good life and make them the cornerstone of a business?
After a hard think, Jono and Kirtsy Rowe realized that their values could be summed up in three words: “Freedom, Legacy, Leadership.” These would become the bedrock of TJKR Group.
Freedom means achieving financial independence from the “rat race” and taking control of your life. Legacy means challenging yourself to be better and leaving a positive impression on others.
Leadership means being mindful of the way you live your life (because others are watching!), and dedicating yourself to service.
Under these values, Jono and Kirsty’s businesses thrived. Customers were drawn by enthusiastic leadership that genuinely cared for their wellbeing. And partners were attracted by the Rowes’ dedication to helping them achieve their own financial freedom and success.
No more bosses and board rooms. No more cubicles and Monday mornings. Just people helping each other thrive and achieve financial independence. Together.
A Bright Future
What does the future hold for Jono and Kirsty Rowe?
They’re ready to pass on their mission of togetherness to others. They are now active mentors to couples and families in NZ, helping them achieve financial freedom and define their values.
Jono is busy speaking on leadership. He also uses his expertise in finance to help others manage their expenses and get their debt under control—all steps towards financial independence.
Kirsty, a creative guru, empowers other mums to become leaders in their homes and communities. An active life coach, she inspires her mentees to channel their strengths into entrepreneurial opportunities.
Together, the couple has launched The Legacy Academy, a podcast dedicated to helping others define their values and lead a better life. Parenting, relationships, entrepreneurship, investing, and leadership are just a few of the topics discussed.
As TJKR Group grows, the Rowes have been thinking less in terms of finite goals and more in terms of infinite possibilities. Kirsty puts it best:
A successful business attitude is about seeing beyond finite targets and goals. You’ve got to look generations beyond yourself. The most important decisions are made around culture, values, and purpose—not competition, short-term targets, and popularity. Businesses that choose the right path, as opposed to the easy path, will stand the test of time.
Jono and Kirsty Rowe are enthusiastic about the future of their businesses and the relationships they’re building every day.
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