25 Years in Business: The Adventure of a Lifetime
Running a business is like setting sail on the open sea. There are moments when the sun shines brightly, and everything feels smooth and effortless. Then there are times when the waves crash hard, the wind howls, and you’re clinging on for dear life.
This year marks 25 years since I first launched into the unknown, and I can honestly say it’s been the time of my life. A quarter of a century in business has brought me challenges, triumphs, and countless lessons. If I could go back, I wouldn’t change a thing—not even the tough days—because they’re what have made the journey worth it.
It’s Not Always Plain Sailing
Let’s be real: running a business isn’t all success stories and celebrations. There are setbacks, doubts, and moments when you wonder if the whole thing is worth it. But here’s the truth: those storms shape you. They force you to dig deep, adapt, and become better than you were yesterday.
My main purpose for starting my business was simple: I hated the traditional 9 to 5 and craved freedom. I wasn’t motivated by money (which is just as well!). I wanted to own my time and my life. Of course, there are moments when deadlines and projects demand every ounce of energy, but having control over my life has always made this journey an appetising prospect for me. To this goal, I’m proud to say I’ve achieved my target.
So, what does it take to keep going, year after year, for 25 years? Let me share the tools that have kept me afloat:
1. A Vision That Excites You
If you don’t have a clear purpose or goal, it’s easy to lose your way when times get tough. Your vision needs to be something that gets you out of bed in the morning, something that lights a fire in your soul.
2. Adaptability
One of the lessons I’ve learned – sometimes the hard way – is that change is inevitable. The past five years have certainly proven that. The world moves quickly and markets shift, technology advances, and customer needs evolve. To succeed, you have to be ready to adapt and embrace the unknown. The most successful entrepreneurs aren’t rigid; they’re flexible and resilient. You can be too.
Fear is what often stops us in our tracks. It holds us back and is the main reason we fail to reach our potential. The truth is, we’re all the same in this respect. Understanding this has been one of the key things that’s helped me overcome fear. We’re all afraid. Realising this simple fact has allowed me to accept that it’s okay to feel fear. Adapt. Change is what helps you grow and even spot opportunities early. It may be the very thing that can throw you off course, but once you accept its inevitability, you’ll learn to adapt and grow when the time comes.
3. An Amazing Support Network
Running a business can be a lonely journey, especially in the early years. While it’s not essential, having someone who believes in you can make a world of difference. Whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, or a mentor, having people in your corner is priceless. They’re the ones who will remind you of your strengths when you doubt yourself and offer encouragement when the road gets tough. For me, I didn’t have a particular person to lean on in those early days, but over time, I’ve built connections and relationships that have been invaluable.
4. A Healthy Dose of Grit
Let’s face it: there will be days when giving up feels like the easiest option. But for me, quitting was never truly on the table. I always came back to the “why” behind what I was doing. I thought about the people I’d seen stuck in jobs they hated and reminded myself of the freedom and fulfilment I’d worked so hard to create. I’d replay the high points of my journey and know that there were still so many more to come. Staying power comes from grit, that inner resolve to push forward, even when the odds seem impossible. It’s this unshakable determination that keeps you in the game and moving towards your dreams.
5. A Willingness to Learn
Looking back to the late 90s and early 2000s, the skills I had then would be largely irrelevant today. But not the lessons learned. The key is to never stop learning and evolving. In fact, this is what excites me most about what I do. When something new emerges, it can spark a renewed sense of enthusiasm. The moment you think you’ve got it all figured out, that’s when you’ve lost. Every setback, every mistake, and every conversation holds the potential to teach you something valuable. Stay curious, remain humble, and always keep growing.
6. Passion for What You Do
7. A Sense of Humour
Enjoy it! It’s the most important thing of all. Yes, there will be tough moments, but the highs are incredible, and the lows are just stepping stones to the next peak. And don’t forget to laugh, especially at yourself when necessary. If you can’t find humour in yourself or in the chaos that surrounds you, you’re in for a bumpy ride. Keeping things light and finding joy amidst the madness is key to staying grounded.
Looking Back, Looking Ahead
As I reflect on the past 25 years, I’m filled with gratitude. For the wins and the lessons, for the people who’ve been part of the journey, and for the privilege of doing what I love.
If you’re running a business, dreaming of starting one, or navigating a particularly challenging season, let me remind you: the highs are worth the lows. Every success, every breakthrough, and every proud moment comes because you dared to keep going.
Here’s to the next adventure. Stay the course, embrace the journey, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride.
See you next week, everyone,
Peter xx