Episode #834 of the MSPi PrimeCast
Success in the MSP industry rarely happens overnight. It is built through consistent decisions, strong relationships, disciplined habits, and a willingness to adapt as circumstances change. Jason Kemsley’s experience in the MSP channel has given him a unique perspective on what it takes to sustain growth and remain successful over the long term. These principles offer valuable guidance for MSP owners looking to strengthen both their businesses and themselves.
1. Raise Your Standards by Learning from the Best
Jason believes that spending time around high performers naturally raises your own expectations. Whether in business, sports, or leadership, exposure to excellence can help identify opportunities for improvement and encourage higher levels of performance.
MSP Action: Surround yourself with peers, mentors, and industry leaders who challenge you to improve your business and leadership skills.
2. Focus on the Next Step, Not the Finish Line
One lesson Jason shared is the importance of concentrating on the next move rather than becoming overwhelmed by the end goal. Consistent progress often comes from focusing on what needs to happen next instead of worrying about the entire journey.
MSP Action: Break large business goals into smaller milestones that can be achieved and measured regularly.
3. Appreciate the Journey
Many business owners spend years chasing goals only to discover that achieving them does not provide the fulfillment they expected. Jason noted that success is often found in the process rather than the destination itself.
MSP Action: Celebrate progress and milestones with your team instead of waiting for a major achievement to recognize success.
4. Build Relationships Before You Need Them
Throughout his career, Jason has seen the value of meeting new people and expanding his network. Strong relationships often create opportunities that would never have existed otherwise.
MSP Action: Make networking a regular part of your business strategy by attending events, engaging with peers, and building industry connections.
5. Ask Better Questions
Jason believes many business owners fail to ask enough questions when evaluating vendors, partners, or opportunities. Better questions often lead to better decisions and fewer surprises.
MSP Action: Review your vendor and partnership evaluation process to ensure you’re looking beyond pricing and features.
6. Protect Your Business While Staying True to Your Values
One of Jason’s biggest lessons is that being a good person does not mean allowing others to take advantage of you. Long-term success requires balancing strong values with smart business decisions.
MSP Action: Establish clear boundaries, expectations, and accountability measures for clients, vendors, and internal teams.
7. Make Time for What Matters Most
Time is one of the most valuable resources an MSP owner has. Jason emphasized the importance of creating space to focus on priorities rather than becoming consumed by daily distractions and operational challenges.
MSP Action: Identify one activity that can be delegated or streamlined to create more time for leadership and strategic planning.
8. Let Discipline Lead the Way
Jason credits much of his success to discipline rather than talent. Consistent habits, personal accountability, and a commitment to improvement can create results that compound over time.
MSP Action: Choose one habit that directly impacts your performance and commit to improving it every day for the next 90 days.
What This Means for MSPs
Long-term success is rarely the result of a single decision or breakthrough moment. It is built through a series of consistent actions that strengthen relationships, improve decision-making, and reinforce positive habits. Jason Kemsley’s principles serve as a reminder that success comes from maintaining high standards, staying disciplined, and focusing on what truly matters. MSP owners who embrace these ideas will be better positioned to navigate challenges and create sustainable success for years to come.
  Catch the full conversation on MSPi PrimeCast Episode #834 and connect with Jason at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-kemsley