Grab (Business) Life by the Horns

Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!

I’m not sure about you, but for me 2019 has been a whirlwind. A whirlwind of grabbing life by the horns and taking chances. In August 2019 – we officially became a branded company, securing our business as The Marketing Junkie LLC. My husband and I are grateful for all opportunities we’ve had since October, when we officially launched the business. So far, met with solo-preneurs, large corporations, hospital networks, non-profits, school systems, husband-and-wife power duos, fitness centers and community services. I can’t speak for my husband, but I’ve been humbled beyond measure at the outpouring of support and opportunities to develop creative marketing materials.

Mantra of the Year – COURAGE

Each year, I pick a word that becomes my mantra to focus on throughout the year. I do my best to keep it at the forefront of my brain and weave it into daily life for perspective. 2019 was sincerity. While I may have missed the boat, I’m calling it a win on the basis that I had developed and deepened my character and integrity. 2019 was hard. Damn hard. It was also damn rewarding.

People are afraid of “The Ask”. Think about it, as a child you may have been nervous or hesitant to ask your parent for something. In your friendships, you may have been afraid to ask for help or to have someone listen. In your career, you may have been afraid to ask for fair compensation. If we never ask, we never receive. It’s time to put away our humility and nervousness and go for it. What would you change in your business if you had the courage to do so? Try it! It could take you to the next level.

For me, courage is standing up for what I believe in. In my life, I’ve been seen as difficult, or challenging, or unstable. But, it has taken courage for me to be seen for who I am. I am all those things. I’m also dedicated, responsible, creative, intelligent, sharp, intuitive and a little scattered. The fact if the matter is this: I know myself (and my flaws) and I’m willing to show up anyway. 

Attitude of Gratitude

When I say the reception of opening this business has been positive – it’s an understatement. I’ve had a significant support system guiding me and navigating me through troubled waters. I’ve had professional connections support me because they know-like-trust me and are confident in my abilities. Opportunities that I never thought possible, are not just possible but extremely available. I share this not to be boastful. I share this in massive gratitude to those who have inspired me to continually work hard, stay grateful and let the work speak for itself. Many listened while in dark times, a strong few provided harsh insights. That guidance is ultimately what caused me to grab (business) life by the horns and make magic happen.

The Year Ahead

2020 is going to be all about courage. Courage to stand alone, to collaborate with others, to try new things, to ask for help, to forge ahead. Courage to say what needs said, to love as hard as I can, and to continually improve myself for my husband, my family and friends and to continually offer quality services at fair prices for area businesses.