This past weekend, we decided
to try something different for the ISI Christmas party by not only hosting the
party at our office (as opposed to a restaurant or country club) but we also
made it a “family affair” by encouraging employees to bring their kids as
well. As we set up for the party, it quickly became apparent how well the
new office remodeling design was able to accommodate a party and create a new atmosphere.
Many
employees remarked how we couldn’t have been able to pull it off with the old
office design. That really made me feel good! Not only does ISI have
a cool new look to the office but the space is also highly functional and
versatile. And we’re saving money. Not a bad combination!
Something else that
really made me feel good? As I walked around the office speaking to various ISI
employees and their spouses (and some of their children), an overwhelming sense
of gratitude and accomplishment came over me. I certainly felt grateful to have
been able to create a sustainable business that continues to grow and has
provided jobs and a way of life for almost 50 people in several different cities
and states. At one point, I really
thought about it and my company is not just responsible for those almost 50 employees but also their spouses and children as well. And in thinking about what that meant
I came to the conclusion that the real number I’m responsible for is closer to
200 people.
Am I intimidated by that realization? Not at all - I am actually
INSPIRED by it! Knowing what’s at stake makes me go into the office
everyday trying to do a better job than I did the day before. Pure and simple
And as we enjoyed all the
great food, pictures with Santa and special appearances from Anna and Elsa (from
the movie “Frozen”), I did pause and reflect. 20 years ago (almost to the
day), I was fired from my job and had no visible means of support for my
wife and children. Life wasn’t very fun back then and those were some challenging
days for sure! But 20 years later and after all the ups and downs of
being a small business owner, I must say that seeing the look of pure joy
on the faces of my employees and their children at our Christmas party made it all worthwhile. Without a doubt it was one of my most gratifying days as an
entrepreneur.