Professional consultant Tarek Saadi is the founder and managing director of L Formation, which helps companies expand their operations into the GCC and KSA markets. Mr. Saadi graduated with a master’s degree in electrical engineering from North Carolina State University in 1990 and went on to complete a post-graduate chartered accounting program atMcGill University.
Building stronger teams is a key element of Mr. Saadi’s consultancy work, and this is partly informed by the work of author Thomas Eriksson regarding personality types and how to create teams that work well together. In his book Surrounded by Idiots, Eriksson discusses a method of assessing the personalities of those we communicate with, based on four personality types. If we can identify an individual’s personality type, argues Eriksson, we can tailor how we can communicate with them and share information. Mr. Saadi’s approach to consultancy has also been influenced by neuroscientist David Eagleman’s book The Brain, which explores our individual perceptions of reality and identity – analyzing how we make decisions and the importance of social connections.
To relax, Mr. Saadi enjoys a diverse range of hobbies and interests, including reading, skiing, and swimming. He loves to travel and has done so extensively; to date, he’s visited countries including the United States, Canada, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, France, and Germany, along with regions in North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. He also likes to fix things around the home.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day starts with exercise 2-3 times a week to clear my mind and set a positive tone. Afterward, I prioritize my tasks based on urgency and impact, ensuring my consulting clients and investment portfolios receive the attention they need. I also dedicate time to learning, whether through reading industry reports or listening to podcasts. Maintaining a structured routine and focusing on high-value tasks ensures productivity.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I believe in validating ideas with data and feedback. For instance, in my consulting work, I start by analyzing market trends and client needs. I then collaborate with teams to create actionable strategies. Once the plan is ready, I ensure meticulous execution and monitor progress to adapt when needed.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The integration of technology, sustainability, and innovation is opening opportunities for investments and consulting work that can make a tangible difference in the world.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Regular exercise keeps me energized and focused. It’s not just about physical health but mental clarity. I find that a short workout can provide a creative spark or solve a complex problem I’ve been wrestling with.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Take calculated risks earlier and trust the learning process. Fear of failure often delays opportunities, but every misstep is a chance to grow. Also, start investing sooner—the earlier you begin, the more compounding works in your favour.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe downtime is just as critical as active work. Many see constant activity as productivity, but I’ve found that stepping back, reflecting, and even taking a break can lead to better long-term outcomes.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I regularly review my goals—personal, professional, and financial. It’s a simple practice that keeps me aligned and focused on what truly matters, ensuring that my efforts are directed effectively.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I pause and either go for a short workout or a walk. Physical activity clears my mind and helps me regain focus. Alternatively, I break down tasks into smaller steps to reduce the feeling of overwhelm.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Building strong, authentic relationships has been pivotal. In consulting and investments, trust and credibility are everything. By focusing on delivering value and maintaining clear communication, I’ve cultivated a network that drives referrals and opportunities.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One mistake I made was staying employed in a corporate role for too long. While it provided stability, I realized later that venturing into entrepreneurship earlier would have allowed me to take more risks and gain valuable experience sooner. I overcame this by eventually stepping out of my comfort zone, leveraging my skills to start consulting and exploring investments. The lesson I learned is that sometimes the biggest growth comes from taking calculated risks and pursuing your passions boldly.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A subscription-based platform that simplifies energy efficiency audits for businesses. With the growing emphasis on sustainability, many companies lack the tools to optimize their energy use. A user-friendly platform could fill this gap.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Trello is invaluable for project management. I use it to organize tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with teams. It helps me stay on top of multiple projects across different industries.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
Book: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. It’s a fantastic guide to building small habits that lead to significant change.
Podcast: “The Tim Ferriss Show”—I enjoy the diverse range of guests and practical advice on productivity, health, and entrepreneurship.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
“The Queen’s Gambit” was fascinating. I loved how it showcased the importance of strategy, discipline, and resilience, themes that resonate in both sports and business.
Key learnings
- Regular exercise and goal-setting are essential for sustained productivity and focus.
- Building authentic relationships is key to advancing in consulting and investments.
- Failure is a learning opportunity—diligence and adaptability are critical for growth.
- Leveraging tools like Trello and tracking personal habits enhances efficiency.
- Staying informed on industry trends, such as sustainability, creates opportunities for innovation and impact.