Yup, I even wore a bow tie as a kid.

Tis’ the season for reflection, and looking forward to 2015. I’m not really into that kind of stuff, but I figured I’d write a bit about 2014, my experiences, and what’s on tap for 2015 in hopes of inspiring one of you…my devoted, and all loving fans.

2014 was a wild year. One of my businesses squeaked its head into the cash-flow positive realm, and I recently started another (set to be cash-flow positive in January). I left my decent paying 9-5 job to start a new venture, and instantly went from making a solid income every month to basically nothing, relying on my wife, and my quick stint in retail to keep things afloat. I also nearly died, but we won’t get into that.

If the past year has taught me anything it’s this – money isn’t everything. I used to compare myself to others based on income statements. I thought money was everything, and I was building a pretty decent life for myself around those income statements, but I didn’t feel right. That’s when I jumped, and went from something to nothing (at least when it came to cash). I’m lucky enough to have a supportive wife, who’s able to keep a roof over our heads, and food on the table (hello, ramen!) while I dabble, and try to make a difference in my community, and get the sense of fulfillment I wasn’t getting elsewhere.

It’s unbelievable how my priorities have changed. I’m more focused on the difference I’m making in the world aka my community then I am about my income statements. I no longer am a key in someone else’s money making cog. I’m getting back what I put in, I’m building something like you as an entrepreneur or small business owner. I’m working 10 – 15 hour days, 7 days a week, but it doesn’t really feel like work. At the same time, I’m making time for family & friends as I’ve realized how important they are.

When I started my now multiple ventures, no one ever said it was going to be this much work. No one ever said every single day was going to breed a new challenge. And no one ever said, I was going to feel this at ease. I’ve learned more in the past year, than I have in my entire life combined. Although I don’t regret my past as it’s helped build me into who I am today.

I’m closer with my wife, my family, and my friends. I realized they are THE most important thing. To some of you it may be different, and that’s fine. Ride your beliefs, and you’ll see the fruits of your labour. I’ve shifted my focus away from being an almighty, power-suit wearing, whip-cracking CEO to a bow tie wearing goofball who doesn’t take too many things personally. Keep those who believe in your close, and those who don’t…forget about them.

I’m no longer afraid to ask for help. I no longer believe I have all the answers. I find time for family, and friends every day, and I try to do something new in the community every couple weeks (whether it’s chatting with a small business owner, or having a board game night with a few friends). How do I find the time? I MAKE time. I also have a rigours schedule that I stick to, but I can build, and shape however I want. My schedule is not dictated by someone else (hello, 9-5). I make my own schedule, and stick to it.

I used to say to my wife, “I don’t have time!” Now, I make time, and we schedule certain events in advance, while having the leniency to change things on the fly.

I’m not saying to model your life after mine as some of these things may sound to regimented or boring, but you may find something. Or you may find a friend to console in knowing I’m going through the same things as you.

What you, and I are doing is not easy. Building a business or two or three (or more in my case) takes effort, motivation, believers, failures, tears, loved ones, and so much more, but you already know that. I’m not a millionaire, and I don’t plan to be. 2015 is going to be a year of triumphs, failures, tears, loved ones, and so on, and I can’t wait. Never before have I been more excited about a year.

I look forward to growing along with each and every one of you who reads this blog every single week. You’re not alone in your adventures in 2015. If you’re in need of help or you just want someone to share your triumphs, failures, whatever with in 2015 feel free to shoot me an email at effUmarketing@gmail.com. I will respond to every single one.

I believe in you.

All the best in 2015!

Love you,

Jordan ‘The Guy with the Bow Tie’ Rycroft