It’s early in the morning, and I’m here thinking about life and where the time has gone. Wasn’t it just yesterday I became the first employee of Dc Design House Inc.?
I have to admit, sometimes it feels like a thousand years since I opened up in a little office on Pippy Place. So much has changed since then, but a few things are still very much the same: when you own a business that employs a team of fifteen+, you can’t turn it off at 5pm, or 9pm … or 2am, depending on the deadlines-that-be. And 99% of the time, you don’t even want to because you’re crazy in love. In love with your clients, your team, and the place you call home.
The Heart of it All
I never started a business to drive a fancy car or live in a big ol’ house. I started my business because I love our city and the people in it. I love how our small-business owners are able to create something out of nothing, on the edge of a rock in the far east of North America’s oldest city.
And most of all, I love how each day gives me the chance to learn about every industry and non-profit cause from here to the harbour. I know the people in power like I know the people just beginning on their business’ journey. I get the challenges and opportunities that unite us all – that’s the gift.
#blessed
On this eight year anniversary, I’m giving thanks: to Denise, the love of my professional life, my partner in the company (aka “biz wife”), who is amazing and puts up with my crazy ass! To my rockstar team, past and present, who I’ve learned so much from, going above and beyond their career expertise. To my clients, who remind me to push harder and think bigger, and to my friends and family, who definitely took a backseat when I first got going, and to this day deal with my last minute cancellations and “running late” texts. I give my thanks to all of you.
Dc’s “How to”
And to anyone reading this, I’ll tell you that owning a business will forever change you. But if your remember a few key pieces of advice that I’ve gathered over the years, it will be for the better.
1. Think like a customer.
2. Think before you react.
3. Bite off more than you can chew. Then chew it.
Looking forward,Dc
