At the tender age of 66 and after 10 years since start-up, I recently sold my graphics business. Not firm on what's next, but it won't be running a graphics business due to the purchase terms. S101 is the only social media account where I regularly participate, so I'll at least lurk for a while. Thanks to all of you for the many good tips, advice, laughter, and even the occasional disagreement (usually offered with good intentions). After a recent health scare with my spouse, decided running a business was less a priority than spending some quality time in retirement (well maybe semi-retirement).
Blessed to have networked with two serious purchasers and was able to get a fair price from one local businessman who was already in a graphics-related business. Started my business from scratch in 2010 with no customers but a reasonably well-thought out business plan that focused on several market niches I perceived as potentially profitable at a small scale. My goal was to focus on unique creative projects, build a reputation for delivering a premium high-quality experience, allowing me to keep it small, fun, but very profitable. Took five years to reach my three-year plan, and at several points came close to giving up. Something positive always seemed to happen just as I reached those low points. My faith in God helped along with my natural stubbornness combined to keep me at it. I also feel blessed to live in a country where an entrepreneurial spirit still exists and is valued. Feeling lucky to be wrapping it up now as my children and grandchildren are growing up in a world where fear of risk, failure, and dwelling on past weaknesses is increasingly overtaking freedom, optimism and pride in achievement.
Blessed to have networked with two serious purchasers and was able to get a fair price from one local businessman who was already in a graphics-related business. Started my business from scratch in 2010 with no customers but a reasonably well-thought out business plan that focused on several market niches I perceived as potentially profitable at a small scale. My goal was to focus on unique creative projects, build a reputation for delivering a premium high-quality experience, allowing me to keep it small, fun, but very profitable. Took five years to reach my three-year plan, and at several points came close to giving up. Something positive always seemed to happen just as I reached those low points. My faith in God helped along with my natural stubbornness combined to keep me at it. I also feel blessed to live in a country where an entrepreneurial spirit still exists and is valued. Feeling lucky to be wrapping it up now as my children and grandchildren are growing up in a world where fear of risk, failure, and dwelling on past weaknesses is increasingly overtaking freedom, optimism and pride in achievement.
