The box was labeled “Records from 2000”.
Inside were our old timesheets and paystubs from our first year in business. Yes, we actually printed all of that back then! 😊
As I flipped through the pages, I smiled at the names of our first clients and remembered those early days of figuring things out as we went.
Then I noticed something missing. My first paystub.
I finally found it in the second month's records. Then I remembered. I did not take a paycheck that first month so we could make sure everyone else was paid and cover our startup and operating expenses.
Our total payroll for all our 2 full time and 2 part-time employees that first year was $62,448.
I also remembered sitting down to figure out how we would manage our household expenses while investing in this new business. Pam and I knew it would take some sacrifice, and we wanted to be prepared.
Those early days were exciting, but they also came with plenty of questions, uncertainty, and moments of wondering how everything would work out.
Remember, every business owner has a story.
If you're just starting out, you probably know exactly what I'm talking about. The excitement of landing that first client, the pressure of making payroll, the personal sacrifices, and the hope that all the hard work will pay off.
And if you've been in business for years, sometimes it's good to remember those early days and appreciate just how far you've come.
Business is about much more than making money. It's about people, relationships, perseverance, and believing in something before you know exactly how it's going to turn out.
To those just starting out: Give yourself some grace. Every established business was once a startup, too.
