The Surprise Big Finish
/We entered December with what we knew were exciting plans, but we finished with an even bigger surprise.
It’s been a year of unexpected twists, turns and exciting opportunities. As Co-founders, we are fully committed to this business. And, as many of you who are, or have been, business owners can appreciate, we have also both worked in additional roles that added value or provided specific perks. In Rugged’s case, he has created exquisite gifts of superior craftsmanship while working full-time in another role that provided key benefits. Yes, that’s a lot.
When we first began discussing Rugged’s time commitments, we estimated his day job departure for five years. However, by early 2023, we accelerated that plan to two years, considering the pace of things. Our priorities had shifted, and the job perks began to feel more like an anchor than a benefit. Today, we are thrilled to report that the plan again accelerated - Rugged retired (from his other job) in December 2023.
Is this a happy guy or what?! The Day he turned the retirement papers in at his day job.
It has been a whirlwind, one we continue to celebrate. As you might imagine, it opens up all kinds of discussions about doing more, less, and different in our personal lives and in this business.
In our seventh year of Red & Rugged, we’re reflecting and making intentional choices regarding our newfound freedom. What comes next? What projects do we love? Is there anything new we’d like to add? What isn’t serving us anymore?
For those of you who are business owners, we share these thoughts for your consideration.
Know from the start that your business will change in unexpected ways you can’t predict (2020 is just one example).
The same changes may impact each of you differently. Your passions, health, and priorities may recalibrate in surprising ways.
If you’re running a business with a life partner, you may witness their changes before they do. These shifts need to be discussed openly and honestly (monthly, quarterly, bi-annually) to keep you moving in the same direction. Or raise questions if you’re not. For us, it became clear that five more years of Rugged serving two professional roles was not sustainable (Note: he worked there for 40 years!).
As we ponder and adjust, we’ll keep you posted. One thing is for sure: there will be more freedom to relax, make pizza, play golf, travel, hang out with family, and focus on the artisan business opportunities that are the most fulfilling. So, if you have a request for a product, event, or custom artisan experience, now is the time to let us know! Email us at greetings@redandrugged.net.
Here’s to a peaceful and prosperous year.