Growing Through the Hard Stuff: A Contractor’s Guide to Stress and Leadership

Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Roofing

January 16, 2026

In the fast-paced world of home services, from hvac companies and plumbing contractors to electrical contractors, stress is often seen as a constant companion

. Whether you are managing contractor management services or running a small roofing business, the pressure to perform, lead, and grow can feel immense

In a recent episode of The Successful Contractor Podcast, Brandon Marshall, Transformation and Leadership Mentor at Certain Path, sat down to discuss why stress is peaking for trades professionals today and how to turn that pressure into a catalyst for growth.

The Difference Between Transition and Transformation

Many hvac coaches and trades business coaches talk about “transitioning” your business—moving to a new location or entering a new season. However, Marshall argues that true growth requires transformation.

Transition is about a change in your environment or circumstances.
Transformation is about a change in you as a leader.

For hvac contractors and plumbing business owners, this means evolving your mindset to handle the unique pressures of the industry.

Why Stress Management is Vital for the Modern Contractor

Whether you are an electrician contractor or a metal roof contractor, the weight of leadership can be draining. Marshall notes that many leaders are constantly “pulled on” until they end up empty.

“Stress will never be the problem,” Marshall explains. “How we look at it will always be the problem”

To prevent your “cup from running dry,” it is essential to have a support system or a contractors coach who can pour back into you. This is particularly true for those managing high-stakes roles like hvac installation, hvac repair, or commercial hvac services where the margin for error is slim.

Moving from “Survival” to “Success”

Many home improvement contractors find themselves stuck in a cycle of just trying to “make it”. They may struggle with hvac sales or plumbing sales training, not realizing that their internal stress is affecting their business performance metrics.

Key takeaways for contractors looking to scale include:

Vulnerability in Leadership: Your ability to be vulnerable dictates how much help you can receive from an electrical business coach or mentor.
Addressing the Root Cause: Often, the business “symptom” (like low profit) is a result of a much deeper issue in leadership or mindset.
Implementing Systems: Successful contractors focus on specific improvements, such as “dispatching for profit,” as a first step toward stability.

Continuous Learning and Coaching

For those wondering how much does hvac make or how to improve their hvac salary, the answer often lies in hvac business training and hvac coaching. Whether you take hvac classes online or engage in hvac business coaching, the goal is to discover what you don’t yet know about your own potential.

As Marshall suggests, waking up determined to give back to your team and your community can alleviate much of the personal pressure that comes with being a roofing contractor or hvac technician.

Listen to the full conversation on YouTube: How Contractors Grow Through the Hard Stuff | Brandon Marshall