One year ago today, my husband, Garth, lost his mentor, boss and friend.
It was completely unexpected. After all, Larry, a giant in the Tennessee legal community, was only 56.
I distinctly remember how I found out. I had been celebrating my birthday with my girlfriends. As I was leaving dinner, my husband was calling me for about the fifth time. I answered as I got in the car and was driving home.
I remember sitting at a stoplight in utter shock. But, in that moment, I couldn’t help but wonder how this tragedy would affect our lives. And, I remember thinking that my dreams of quitting my job to take my business full time had likely just flown out the window.
That night and the days that followed were full of grief and head-spinning decisions. But, in a matter of days, we decided Garth should open up his own law firm.
Merely six weeks after Larry passed away, Garth opened the doors to his own practice. It was a frenetic whirlwind to close down Larry’s firm while also preparing to launch a new one.
But, despite all of that grief, bewilderment and stress, we made it happen. And now, almost a year later, my husband’s practice is thriving. And because Garth’s practice got off to such a good start, I was able to leave my job in February.
One year ago today, I didn’t think that would be possible.
My Advice to You
Life is a funny thing. When I look back on that night one year ago, it is awfully striking how I was celebrating another year of life in one moment and then mourning the loss of another life in the next.
I realize this deviates from the regular marketing and social media tips you find here. But, I’m sharing all of this to remind you that life is short. Each and every day is truly precious. And, it’s far too easy to let it be consumed with stuff that doesn’t matter.
If I were to give you one piece of advice, it would be this – don’t wait.
There will never be a good time to start a business or a family.
There will never be the right moment to start living your dream.
There will never be a perfect time to pursue your passion.
Don’t wait until tomorrow.
Because you never know when your last day on this earth will be.
Looking back on a year ago, it would have been easier for Garth to just go find another job. But even in our grief, we realized an opportunity – and we took it.
Yes, it was scary.
Yes, it was hard.
But, it was totally worth it.
When I talk to people about entrepreneurship, I often say it’s like standing at the edge of a cliff. You look over the edge and you know that it’s a long way down and that the jump will be scary, but you do it anyway.
Oftentimes, the things most worth doing are the hardest. But, those who dare to take the leap and work hard to pursue their passion will be rewarded. That’s the secret to success.
Don’t let obstacles stand in the way of your dreams.
Don’t let your fears squash your desire to make a difference in this world.
And, when an opportunity presents itself – even at a difficult time – take it.
Because sometimes, you just have to jump.
So, what are you waiting for?
Image credit: Prem Anandh
