Running a Business is like having a Newborn

by Matthew Best

This past week my wife delivered our fourth child. It's a wonderful experience that changes your life.

In fact, when you think about it - running a business is very much like having a newborn.

When you have a newborn you just don't sleep on your own schedule - it's the baby's schedule. Isn't that also true for your business? When a customer wants something, you go out of your way to fulfill their need on their time frame. It doesn't always work out, but your customer appreciates the effort.

You devote as much time, attention, and energy to your children as possible to see them grow up to be successful young adults who can make it on their own. Think about how much time, energy and attention you put into your own business - if you are like most business owners, you treat your business as if it were a member of the family. It's health and well-being have an impact on the rest of the family.

Having and raising a baby is not an easy job. Could anyone argue differently about owning and running a business?

Ask any parent if they love their child unconditionally and you should get a resounding yes. That is why kids can get away with so much - parents will put up with a great deal of frustration because they love their child. The same is true for a business owner. A business owner is willing to put up with a great deal of frustration - from irate customers, to uncertain profits, to late hours - all because of the love and devotion an owner will put into their business.

Lastly, A child can make you proud. The first time they say a word, or take a step, or ride a bike without training wheels are proud moments for any parent. You have first moments in business too. The first dollar you earn, your first client, the first time you make an actual profit. These are proud moments for a business owner.

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