Every business, no matter how big, started with a single step. For some, that was a garage. For others, a hotel room. For me, it was simply an idea to help people navigate the complex world of technology. I’m a huge fan of the story of Apple in a garage and Microsoft in a hotel room—it’s a powerful reminder that every giant oak was once a tiny acorn.
Richard Branson put it perfectly: “A big business starts small.”
This isn't just a feel-good quote; it’s a fundamental truth for every entrepreneur. If you’re a new business owner just getting started, you're likely wearing a dozen different hats—from sales and marketing to accounting and customer support. Your resources are limited, and your to-do list seems to grow faster than you can check things off.
And for those of us who have been in the game for a while, the struggles don't just disappear. As a business owner for over 25 years in the managed IT and cybersecurity industry, I can tell you that the challenges simply evolve.
The Entrepreneur's Marathon
In my business, the day doesn't always end at 5:00 PM. We rely on a talented team, but much of our staff is part-time. That means I’m often clocking back in late at night to handle things that need immediate attention or to catch up on the day’s tasks. The responsibility rests squarely on my shoulders.
On top of the day-to-day grind, our industry demands constant vigilance. The world of IT and cybersecurity is a nonstop marathon of:
- Training and Learning: New threats emerge daily, and technology changes at a blinding pace. Staying ahead of the curve is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
- Problem-Solving: We face new challenges every week, from vendor failures to unexpected system breaches. Each problem is a new puzzle to solve under pressure.
- Adapting: There's no single solution that works forever. We have to be agile, innovative, and ready to pivot at a moment's notice.
Twenty-five years in, and we're still running this marathon. There have been ups and downs, but through it all, we've stayed in the race. That’s a testament not just to hard work, but to a deep-seated commitment to our mission.
What Keeps You Going?
What I’ve learned is that the most powerful resource a business owner has is resilience. It's the ability to get knocked down and get back up again. It's the unwavering belief in your vision, even when the path is rough.
So, whether you're just launching your business or you're an established owner still fighting through daily struggles, remember this: your journey is valid. The long hours, the constant training, the unexpected challenges—they are all part of the story. They are the essential elements that build character, forge strength, and ultimately, transform a small business into a success story.
Keep going. Keep learning. Keep building. Because a big business starts small, and every single step you take today is a stride towards your greatness tomorrow.
