Happy Thanksgiving week. Before we head into baking, feasting, turkey bowls and Black Friday, I think we should all take a moment to think of all the reasons we are grateful to be small business owners.
On my blog I feel like I spend a lot of time addressing the challenges we face as small business owners, and how to run a better business. Today, I want to just give you my list of why I’m so lucky to be a small business owner. Here’s mine, leave yours in the comments!
I’ve learned how to speak up for myself and others. I used to shy away from conflict. Through business I’ve strengthened my courage to do what is right, even when it isn’t what is popular.- I’ve met some of the most inspiring people. On a daily basis I get to talk to people with answers and solutions for all the world’s problems. The business owners I work with restore my faith in humanity.
- My kids think differently. I grew up looking at the world figuring out how to make the most of what it gave me. My kids look at the world and figure out how to get it to work in alignment with their dreams.
- Our family business allows my husband and I to work together to manage our business and our family. I love the synergy we have and the time we get to spend together.
- I get to give back. I remember Christmases past where I didn’t even have money to provide Christmas for my family. Now my family gets to support other families in need during the Holidays.
- I rarely have to get dressed up for work. (This one is kind of a big one for me. I have a strong affinity for jeans, t shirts, and no make up.)
- My business education is also life education. The skills I’ve learned in business make me a better resource in everyday life. When my children have had conflict with friends or teachers, I have the tools to help them speak for themselves and manage their challenges. When I have friends that are struggling in life, I’m often able to give them ideas and suggestions.
- I have a platform for change. I don’t often use my business platform to talk politics, religion or morality. Most of the time we just talk business. But there have been times in the past when society was very angry and divided and I have been able to speak words of peace and healing. I’m grateful to have a voice that people will listen to.
- It’s given me the ability to be mom and to chase my dreams. I never liked the idea that it would have to be one or the other. And if I had to choose career or my family, I’d pick my family. But I’m so grateful that I don’t have to make that choice. As long as I can get really creative, I can always find a way to meet the needs of my kids and business.
- My life’s work, and my job are one in the same. I don’t feel like I’m trying to squeeze in my passion and purpose on the side.
- I have choices. 3 years ago when we were deciding where we wanted to buy a home, we had the opportunity to move anywhere in the country. I’m grateful we were able to go wherever God guided us.
- It’s a lot of fun! When you run the company, you get to make decisions about your corporate culture, vacation policies, and the direction of the company. You truly have the ability to run your business however you want to run it! That my friends is a great blessing.
This list could probably go on longer. But for the sake of my readers, I’m not going to bore you! Business ownership is not easy. It’s not for the faint of heart. It is for the brave, the courageous, and those that are just crazy enough to step outside the box and build an amazing life. The challenges are real. And so are the rewards!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!