At the end of a 23 year relationship, I realized how little time I had spent with my children. I traveled extensively in my career of 18 years, with the help of my spouse during marriage, and, then a Nanny. Driving down the highway, reflecting on loneliness, I decided to change careers. I knew change was difficult and uncertain due to the divorce. My fears were quickly replaced by love for my new coffee business and sons. The excitement of building designs, family flexibility, and coffee bean selection took over. I was driven to do my best for myself, my sons, and soon to be customers.

I began feeling happy and proud of daily accomplishments and decisions. I was able to make decisions I couldn’t make while working for a company for 12 years. But, I learned if I asked questions and offered to take-over work, my boss happily shared the load!

I found working for myself to be very stimulating. I didn’t hand-off the little stuff because I saw those details ensured success. I was painting a picture and all of the details had to be completed by me. Then, I could share the picture with my employees. I taught them every aspect, and when I was gone for weeks, the shop ran fine with a little help from my friends (employees). In fact, they had a party while I was gone… a clean-up party before I returned! I didn’t mind because the customers and employees remained happy, and so did I. Relationship in business is critical.

Having iron-grip control of my business, I could teach it, with no details lost. I had only one problem, lease expiration. The business was closed six (6) months for relocation and I had to return to work. I made a fatal mistake, when the shop reopened. I wasn’t present. The help made decisions, without proper training, and my business declined rather than increased. Now, the details are being handled again, and customer service and profits are increasing once again. I know there is no better authority in my life than me.

To gain in business, one has to have control. Business is business, they say, and numbers are important, too. In the coffee business I’ve learned this. Have one hot number to serve it and make sure your other numbers work at all times, too!