SurveyNow recently sat down with Michael Cokins, a Houston native who has built an impressive career in the insurance industry, starting as a claims adjuster for State Farm and now holding a leadership role in the company’s Corporate & Business Development team. Michael’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for golf. Here’s what he had to share about his journey, the qualities of a good entrepreneur, and the habits that keep him productive.

What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?

In insurance, things rarely go as expected. You need to change your approach and think of creative solutions quickly. It’s also important to show empathy. Whether you’re working with a team, helping clients, or handling claims, understanding others’ needs helps build trust and lasting relationships. Lastly, hard work is key. Success takes time, so you must be ready to put in the time and effort to achieve your goals.

What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was the closure of the Golden Corral restaurant I managed in New Orleans due to Hurricane Katrina. It was devastating for both the business and the community. After that, I had to reassess my career and personal goals, which led me to volunteer with HandsOn New Orleans for almost a year. That experience opened my eyes to how insurance could help rebuild lives after a crisis, ultimately shaping my decision to transition into the insurance industry. Navigating such significant change was tough, but it taught me resilience and the importance of finding new opportunities in adversity.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I’m really excited about the role technology is playing in insurance, specifically in the claims process. AI and machine learning are making it faster and more efficient to assess damages and provide timely support to people. It’s transforming the way we work, allowing us to focus more on personal interactions and less on the administrative side of things. The speed and accuracy that technology brings is helping us serve clients better, and that’s always exciting.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I’d tell my younger self to be patient. When I first started out, I was eager to climb the ladder as fast as possible, but success takes time. You have to focus on gaining experience and learning from every opportunity. I’d also remind myself to embrace challenges as learning experiences, even if they seem insurmountable at the time. Looking back, I realize that those difficult moments taught me the most.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Prioritizing my tasks each morning has been a game-changer for me. I identify the top three things I need to accomplish that day. This keeps me focused and prevents me from getting overwhelmed by smaller, less important tasks. I also make time for breaks, which helps me stay energized and prevents burnout. A quick walk or some time on the golf course helps reset my mind.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I rely on two things—exercise and nature. Golf has always been a way for me to clear my head and find focus. It combines the physical and mental, and spending time outdoors always refreshes me. I also believe in stepping away from work when necessary. If you’re constantly grinding without a break, losing perspective and making mistakes is easy. Knowing when to pause is key to staying productive and motivated.

Takeaway

In 2015, Michael returned to Houston to join State Farm’s Corporate & Business Development team, where his career truly flourished. He credits much of his success to the mentorship he received, which helped him navigate the complexities of the insurance world. Promoted to Claims and Investigations in 2021, Michael continues to thrive, combining his passion for helping others with his love of travel and golf.

In his own words, “Embrace the unexpected, and don’t be afraid to start over.” Michael Cokins’ career is a testament to the power of perseverance and a reminder that with the right mindset, even the most challenging setbacks can lead to new and rewarding opportunities.