Twelve Years of Business Lessons

Twelve years ago today, I joined the world of entrepreneurship. I was 26 years old, and, I suspect, too young and inexperienced to be scared. Through this crazy ride of self-employment, I have learned valuable lessons, and continue to learn more each day.

1. You don't know it all, and you never will. You will always have room for growth and improvement. Check your ego and choose to continually learn from others.
2. Hire people smarter than you are. Let them help take your business to the next level. This is another exercise in checking your ego, and it will pay off.
3. What goes around comes around. The business world is small. Treat others with respect. Your paths will cross again.
4. Reflect on changes. As your business evolves, step outside the "owner" role and become an observer of your business. What were the lessons presented to you through a particular challenge or opportunity? Did you learn those lessons? How did those lessons help you in the future?
5. Work with people you like. If you wanted to work with "anybody," you'd still work for somebody else. Choose your team, subcontractors and clients with purpose. They must compliment your brand and business philosophy.
6. Find support. Hire a coach, join a mastermind group. Find the right support to help you get out of your own way. As leaders, we feel we can't ever show our weaknesses. If you don't share your fears and struggles with others, you won't overcome them. You need a place where you can take down your armor, share both your successes and fears, and be real.
7. Have fun! Each day is a blessing. Choose positivity. Look for the silver lining in even the darkest cloud. 

Thank you to my clients, team members, contractors, vendors, friends, supporters and cheerleaders. It is because of you that I still enjoy this wonderful journey of self employment. I am truly blessed beyond measure.