This year marks 28 years since I filled out the paperwork and officially became a business owner. Looking back, it is interesting to revisit the initial vision I had when starting my business. I pictured a future with the freedom to do what I want, extra time spent with family and friends, and more money in my pocket. However, I quickly learned the realities as the business began to grow and I hired my first employee. I learned how much was involved beyond installing roofing: working with other people, reading resumes and giving interviews, onboarding and training new employees, and so much more. Then, as the business grew, I had to learn budgeting, creating business plans, setting goals and much more. 

Professional & Personal Lessons

I’ve also learned many important personal lessons in these past 28 years of running a business, starting on day one of opening and continuing all the way until today. First, I’ve learned just how fast time can go by, and not to take it for granted. Secondly, I’ve learned how much my faith and God have carried me through the years. Through the good times and the difficult times, both personally and professionally, God has been there to guide me through the ups and downs of life.

Last, and most importantly, I’ve learned how much the people that God placed around me have made a difference in my life and my business. Out of the tragedy when my son passed in 2007, God brought my daughter, Marie, back into my life, and she has helped run the business with me for the past 14 years. I have also been given a great executive leadership team and many wonderful employees, who have all contributed to the success of Roofing & More. My business coach, Phil, has been a gift as well, and has brought some of the best qualities out of each of us, and taught us that the biggest thing we can do to grow is to believe in ourselves. Phil has helped me structure the business and create a place where people are satisfied, fulfilled and excited to come to work.

Blessings on My Journey

Of course, it isn’t just the people around me at work that have helped me build a successful business. My wife, Chris, has been the most supportive and encouraging partner, and has been there for me through the years when business wasn’t great and money was lost, through the best years of business and everything in between. On days I wanted to give up, she always gave me the words I needed to keep the business going.

I am so thankful for all that has happened in the past 28 years, and the people in my life. I couldn’t have done it without them and am blessed to have them on my journey.