Owning or growing a business is certainly challenging. The level of responsibility on the business owner is tremendous, increasing as the business grows. Availability and accessibility are key and absolute critical elements in growth. Hiring employees to help diffuse the pressure by means of delegation brings on its own new set of challenges and difficulties.

Owning or growing a business is not for the faint of heart, or for anyone unwilling to make the business their primary, and almost exclusive, focus. It becomes your "baby" and requires all of you. Days off and vacations are a thing of the past. Fridays don't hold the same relief that they once did. Weekends are days to catch up on things that were unable to be handled during the “work week.”

It is very hard work requiring commitment and dedication to the business, its clients, and its employees. The calling and challenge will rise you up or break you down — one or the other. Mediocrity is not an option in growth. It is exciting and exhilarating. The small successes are so sweet. Each step of progress brings additional responsibility, but also fuels a satisfaction and deeper passion and determination to rise. Being a business owner is a lifestyle choice, not an employment decision. Before you begin, ask yourself, “Am I willing and prepared to make the choice?”