The past 4 years at the company have often been a struggle that are difficult for me to describe. Although I was encouraged by small things and discouraged internally from turning away, I stood on the fence and often considered exiting to develop somewhere else in the business world. As Thomas Paine skillfully penned, "THESE are the times that try men's souls. " No, I'm not trying to compare my life to the brave patriots struggling to defend their newly declared independent nation, but it's true that times at the company were very difficult for a young, energetic man desiring excellence and an exponential growth (and change) curve. It seemed like it would have been so easy (and oftentime so right) to walk away.
Paine continued, "The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. " It is so easy when faced with challenge and conflict to walk, to abandon the difficulties instead of facing them head-on. Thankfully, I moved slowly for once. And, thankfully, our new consultant that everyone revered counseled me at the pinnacle of trial that the best opportunities lay in my future with our company. Opportunities to learn like no other place. It is a chance for me to plant my feet, to understand the business world and a great opportunity to be very successful. And, heck, if after a few years it didn't work out, I would have learned and grown "a whole heck of a lot."
And, no one in our company was like the Redcoats, not even like the Tories. There were many in the old guard, many hindering our potential. But, we were making the changes. The evidences were there. Our COO was in place and being promoted from VP of finance. We had a dynamic new VP of Operations in place. We secured the services of on of the leading minds in our industry to consult with us (and to work often directly with me!) But it was indeed very difficult for me to see those changes taking place. And not helping to clarify my vision were the many emotions involved as a son-in-law to the owner (and the many challenges associated there.)
But today was the first day for our new Director of Finance. So? He is tangible evidence of continued change. He is a success story. A young, vibrant leader that continues the rising tide. Change? Let's change that word to improvement. To growth. To success. To take our little chicken company to the next level.
Pieces in the puzzle are beginning to fall in place. It is beginning to be fun. I'm still swimming with my nose just barely out of the water, but I'm gaining momentum and my paddling is getting easier and makes more sense.
Leaving can be the easiest decision but also can be the worst. Sticking it out has been incredible. Full of opportunity. Perils still lie ahead, but as long as the tide continues to rise we will be able to sail right over them. Once again, Thomas Paine in The Crisis:
"Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value."
