
I remember the times when I was working for someone else’s business thinking I would do it differently. I even had a theme picked out in my head, “dare to be different”. It was about culture to me. Okay, it was also about efficiency, message, and policies. Basically, even though I didn’t admit it at the time, I wanted to do it my way.
But it wasn’t my business.
During my early mid-life crisis (hopefully it was early!), I decided to go for it. Yes, there were many other lifestyle reasons for leaving the corporate world, but one big thing was that I wanted to do my own thing.
Twenty years later, an additional degree, a licensure, raised kids, a shingle hung, a business developed, I am still doing my own thing, and although it has been a little different than planned, it has been exactly as hoped.
Yes, there was fear in telling people I was open for business….what if no one came?
Yes, there were sleepless nights deciding on if I could afford the first part-time employee.
Yes, there were late hours wearing all of the hats.
Yes, at times I wondered is the income worth all the worry and work.
But, then I always remember why.
I remember that I wanted to help others.
I remember that I wanted Christ to be at the center of my business.
I remember that I wanted to be home and actually raise my own kids.
I remember that I wanted to build a team that cared and was also passionate about helping others.
I remember that I wanted to really know my clients/customers and meet their specific needs.
I remember that I wanted to make a difference.
I remember that I dared to be different.
If you are thinking of starting a business, yes there will be years like this one. There will be seasons of wondering why.
But if you are feeling called to do your own thing. If you constantly ponder what you would do differently. If God has given you a vision for a business that will create jobs, meet needs, and make an impact……
Dare to step out in faith.
Dare to be different.
If you own your own business, at the end of this crazy, tumultuous, world-changing year, do you remember why?
Let that be year guide into the new year. Put this year aside. Don’t let today’s circumstance take away your reason for being. Don’t let the valley turn you away from God’s call.
Remember your why.
Remember why.
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