The entrepreneur journey is filled with highs and lows, moments of triumph and times of doubt. For anyone who’s taken the leap to build something from the ground up, the road often feels long and uncertain. In my own experience, I’ve faced challenges that tested my resolve and forced me to confront the limits of my patience and perseverance. Yet, through all the obstacles and late-night worries, there’s a light that keeps me moving forward—a belief in the dreams I’m chasing and the vision I’m working to bring to life.
“We have until April,” I said. At that point, April was about six months away. “If we’re still not OK when April hits, you need to go back to a regular job.” Saying these words felt difficult. It seemed wrong to set such a stipulation, but the truth was, I felt deeply frustrated. I was exhausted and stressed like never before and I wondered if he would be upset with me for making this almost threat-like statement.
I wanted to continue being the supportive spouse, but at the same time, I needed to see a light at the end of this long, dark tunnel.
So, I took a deep breath, sat down with Mr. Sexy, and laid it all out. I expected to see some hurt and maybe even anger, sensing a lack of faith in his ability to succeed in building his business. But instead, he surprised me by nodding and saying, “I agree. I’m actually giving myself only four months.” Deep breath. Inhale. Exhale. In with the nose, out with the mouth. I’m always surprised at how in sync Mr. Sexy and I are before we even say the things out loud to each other.
We spent those six months building, creating, and staying focused. One foot in front of the other. Daily checklists. Some things went undone. There were tears shed, a broken car window, and extra cash mysteriously finding its way into our checking account. Bills were pushed, bills were paid. Clogged plumbing happened. We cursed in the heat of the moment, cried out to God, and wondered if it was all for nothing in the end.
And guess what?
It’s April.
We did it.
We made it.
In fact, we are now thriving through our entrepreneur journey.
My sexual wellness business has found its footing again. I discovered a new stream of income through my expertise in using Instagram for businesses. Every day, I get to do something creative. I have focus and clarity on where I’m headed next. Even on the tough days, I find joy in the smallest things.
I read a lot of books by entrepreneurs, and they all say similar things:
It was really hard.
I cried.
I wanted to give up.
It was the most stressful thing ever.
Blah, blah, blah.
And now, here I am on my entrepreneur journey, making those same statements! Does that make me a hypocrite? I don’t think so. It gives me a deeper understanding of what those statements truly meant. Yet I wish these successful entrepreneurs had shared real-life examples of the moments they were outside, cursing through loud, angry tears. I’m the kind of person who likes the down-and-dirty version of the story. I want to know that someone was literally where I was. Or somewhere worse. Or maybe somewhere not even close to as bad.
It’s my dream to one day be that entrepreneur who can share the gritty details of what it’s like to live this life.
But it’s too much for today. I probably won’t get to it tomorrow, either. It’s too soon, too early, too close to have the perspective I need.
But here’s what I can tell you:
Your dreams are not in vain.
Your crazy huge visions for yourself are not ridiculous.
I speak to myself as much as to you.
I haven’t seen my biggest dreams actualized yet.
But every day, I get one step closer.
As I reflect on this chapter of my entrepreneur journey, I am reminded of the strength and determination required to navigate the path from uncertainty to success. Each challenge faced and every hurdle overcome has brought me closer to realizing my dreams. The journey isn’t always smooth, but it’s the struggles and triumphs along the way that shape us into resilient entrepreneurs. Embracing the ups and downs with unwavering faith has proven that our dreams are worth every effort, and the path we tread is an essential part of our growth and achievement.
I am learning to step into my creativity and lean into my faith. From one moment to the next.
