13 Years in Business: A Reflection and Lessons Learned 🍀
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13 Years in Business: A Reflection and Lessons Learned 🍀
Some say 13 is an unlucky number, but when you realise that only 4% of businesses make it past the decade mark, it feels like we've hit the jackpot celebrating our 13th year in the game.
Thirteen years ago, Eight Recruitment was born in the cozy confines of Nads and Steve's Adamstown loungeroom. With a 2-year-old, a 3-year-old, and a 5-year-old to juggle, and with Steve working shift work in the mines, you could say it was more than just "tough."
The narrative began to shift in 2016 when Steve came aboard, and the "one-woman band" began to play a different tune—a tune that sounded more and more like a "real business." And here we are, a part of the exclusive 4% club of businesses that make it past the decade mark, according to Forbes. It's been a ride filled with highs and lows, lessons learned, and wisdom gained. Let's dive into what these years have taught us:
- Authenticity is Your Superpower
Be YOU. Unapologetically. Being true to who you are isn't just some cliché; it's a cornerstone of a sustainable business. In a world where everyone is trying to sell something, authenticity stands out. It attracts the right people—clients, employees, and partners—and sets the foundation for genuine relationships.
- Letting Go is Part of Growth
People come, people go, and sometimes, they sprint out of your life so fast, they leave skid marks. Each departure, while painful, is an opportunity for growth. Some exits are blessings poorly disguised as gut punches, but they are clearing the path for better fits and new opportunities.
- Embrace the Darkness to See the Stars
Being a business owner is not for the faint-hearted. There will be days so dark you'll question everything. It's in these moments that "delusional" faith in yourself and your vision becomes your beacon. These trials forge resilience and character, shaping you into a leader capable of weathering any storm.
- Cherish the Victories
In the hustle of business, it's easy to overlook the wins. But it's crucial to celebrate them—big or small. Did you manage to keep a plant alive in the office? That’s a win. Celebrate it! These moments of joy and accomplishment are reminders of why you embarked on this journey. They fuel your drive and passion.
- Parenthood as a Catalyst for Success
Contrary to the belief that children are a distraction in business, they're a powerful driving force. They motivate us to push boundaries, dream bigger, hustle harder, achieve more, and set an example of success and resilience.
- Know Your Worth
If you ever doubt your pricing, remember you’re the fine wine of your industry, not the boxed variety. Understanding and standing by the value you bring to the table is vital. It influences how you price your services, choose your clients, and set your boundaries. Knowing your worth also means you're less likely to settle for less than you deserve.
- Alignment Over Profit
It’s okay to swipe left on clients who don’t align with your vibe. Walking away from clients who don't share your values is not just okay; it's necessary. Alignment in values ensures smoother collaborations and projects that are not just profitable but also fulfilling.
- Growth and Comfort Don't Mix
Growth and comfort are like oil and water; they don’t mix. To grow, you’ve got to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Pushing beyond your comfort zone is where true growth happens. It’s like yoga for your business skills—stretching you in ways you never imagined.
- Dare to Be Different
To stand out, you must be willing to do what others won't. Innovation, courage, and a bit of rebellion against the status quo can set you apart in a crowded marketplace. In a field of brown cows, be the purple one. It’s okay to be the odd one out; odd is in.
- Your Tribe is Everything
No one builds a successful business alone. You need a tribe—a community of people who celebrate your successes and support you through failures. They are your sounding board, your cheerleaders, and sometimes, your lifeline.
- Investing in Your Local Community: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Pouring into your local community isn’t just good karma; it’s smart business. The returns on local engagement are astronomical. It’s like planting a garden in your backyard—you nurture it, and suddenly, you’re reaping benefits far beyond your initial investment. Not only does it build goodwill and brand love, but it also connects you to your roots, reminding you why you started this journey in the first place. It’s a circle of support, appreciation, and mutual growth that enriches everyone involved
Reflecting on these past 13 years, we are reminded that this journey is peppered with lessons that are as much about life as they are about business. Here’s to embracing our quirks, celebrating every milestone, and investing in the communities that sustain us. May we all continue to navigate this wild ride with grace, grit, and a good dose of cheekiness. And here’s to all the business owners dancing to their own beat, tripping over toys in the boardroom, and turning dreams into reality, one ridiculous day at a time!
