I started my business in September of 1999.

At the time I had no big plans. No big vision. Nor did I have any idea what I was getting myself into. 😉

I just said yes to a consulting gig that came my way and jumped in with both feet.

And here I am 20 years later – a completely different person than I was in the beginning.

I look back on these first 20 years as one of the greatest blessings of my life.

Through my business I’ve learned who I am.

I’ve owned my strengths – my gifts – and have seen where I’m trying to be something I’m not. (Oh boy have I spent alot of time trying to be something I’m not…. ooof)

I’ve proven to myself that I can do it – I have what it takes to create a business that provides for our family. (One of my biggest lessons/blessings in the years after my divorce)

I’ve learned how to ask for – and receive – support on the journey (This hasn’t come easy for a ‘recovering control freak’ like me… I’m still learning)

I’ve ‘played the game’ of success and have found that it isn’t for me… at least not in the way that most everyone else is doing it. (I spent almost 8 years playing that game before I realized it wasn’t for me – and am SO grateful that I’ve been able to break free and do things differently.)

Put simply, my business has been a spiritual growth journey in disguise… an opportunity to grow like no other.

I’ve ridden the amazing highs of success and have been brought to my knees in moments of loneliness and fear.

I’ve met people who are lifelong friends and business soulmates – many of my most cherished relationships have been created through my business.

And I’ve seen the power of business to change lives. To reveal to us who we really are and what we are capable of.

To call us up and out. To be of service. To have our business be an expression of our purpose (and get paid for it – how cool is that?)

I am grateful for these first 20 years. In many ways I feel like I’m just getting started… I wonder what the next 20 will bring?

Tina

PS – I have some new things brewing that I’ll be sharing more about soon. In the meantime, I would love to hear from YOU. What have been your greatest blessings/lessons from your business thus far?