My First Year in Business: Expecting the Unexpected
It's a wrap!
Taking the leap into business ownership was no small decision. It followed countless deliberations, "What ifs," "Buts," and "How will I’s." It was scary, uncertain, and yet, there was a deep-seated belief that I had to try. I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t.
Looking back, I didn’t have a clear picture of what the first year would look like—or what it would feel like. As it turns out, it’s been everything I hoped for and more, even with its challenges. A year of learning, growth, and surprises. A year I wouldn’t trade for the world. And at the heart of it all? The people. The clients and partners who trusted me, the conversations that made an impact, and the relationships that turned Yellow Robin Coaching & Consulting from a business into something truly meaningful.
Not a Rollercoaster (But Close)
Many business owners describe their first year as a rollercoaster ride. While I appreciate the sentiment, rollercoasters are not for me. Standing in line, the anticipation, the stomach-churning drops, no, thank you. For me, it’s been more like windsurfing, a sport I love.
When the wind catches the sail just right, you feel unstoppable, like the world is your oyster. But you also know that conditions can change in an instant. There are glorious days when the wind and water cooperate perfectly, and there are days when nothing goes as planned, and you’re left floundering. (I’ll never forget the time I had to be rescued by the sapeurs-pompiers on a French beach - proof that we all need help sometimes!).
And just like windsurfing, business ownership can leave you utterly exhausted. You might fall off the board repeatedly, but with enough determination (and perhaps a bit of grit), you manage to get back up. Through it all, my clients have been my compass. Their trust, their openness, and their willingness to embark on this journey with me have been the reason I keep getting back on the board.
10 Lessons to Carry into Year Two
As I reflect on this past year, I’m not just thinking about what I’ve learned - I’m thinking about how these lessons will guide me as I navigate my second year.
Whether you’re starting out, considering a leap, or facing a new chapter, I hope these resonate with you too:
- Trust yourself and be yourself. Staying authentic has kept me on track. I’ll continue to hold onto this as I grow my business.
- Stay open to opportunities. Year one taught me that the best chances often appear unexpectedly - I’ll remain curious and adaptable.
- Your experiences are your toolkit. Every drawer in the chest of experiences is valuable; I’ll keep opening and using them as needed.
- Connections matter. I’ve met incredible people, and nurturing those relationships will be key to my ongoing growth.
- Lean on your community. The support I’ve received has been invaluable. Moving forward, I’ll pay it forward and continue to ask for help when I need it.
- Take risks. The experiments that worked - and even those that didn’t - showed me the importance of courage. Year two will be no different.
- Learning never stops. I’ve discovered so much about my work and myself. I’ll keep approaching every day with curiosity.
- Embrace the emotions. Business ownership isn’t about avoiding discomfort but finding resilience and joy within the ups and downs. I’ll continue to cultivate this in the year ahead.
- Celebrate your wins. Reflecting on achievements has kept me motivated - and yes, there will definitely be more cake.
- Reframe thoughts about work/life. Something I’ve learned that will continue to shape my second year is how I think about work and life. For me, owning Yellow Robin doesn’t feel like work - it feels like a way of life. The lines between personal and professional can blur, but it works for me.
Note: These lessons are in no particular order of importance. Each one carries its own weight and value, and what resonates most may change depending on where you are in your journey.
Looking Ahead
As I step into year two, I know there will be surprises, challenges, and moments that stretch me. But I also know I’m stepping in with a stronger foundation, a clearer sense of who I am, and lessons that will guide me through whatever comes next.
Most of all, I step into year two with immense gratitude - for the clients and partners who have placed their trust in me, for the conversations that have inspired me, and for the privilege of doing work that feels meaningful every day.
Here’s to another year of growth, connection, and hopefully some perfect wind in my sail!
