GATEWAY WEST & METRO EAST IL Blog

Celebrating National Women's Small Business Month

I am proud to share my journey as a business owner. On May 10, 2024, I took a leap of faith and transitioned from over 20 years of experience in B2B technology sales to the construction industry - a significant shift. On paper, it may seem perplexing why I would leave such a well-established and lucrative career. Throughout my career, I was fortunate to work for companies that granted me autonomy, allowing me to operate as a small business owner within a larger corporation, which I now see as a blessing in disguise.

My Koala location opened in 2021 with the initial intention of being a self-run business to generate additional income for my husband and me. However, as time progressed, I realized its potential to be much more than that - an opportunity for me to step into the role of CEO of my own company. Despite making multiple attempts to resign, I was enticed back by incentives and further opportunities. While some may view my decision as unconventional, given the stability of my corporate career, I ultimately reached a point where I could no longer continue juggling both roles.

Mentally drained from balancing two careers, my heart yearned to propel Koala to new heights. I knew it was time to take the plunge. May 10th marked my departure from the security of a guaranteed paycheck, and I approached this new chapter with a sense of nostalgia for my humble beginnings two decades ago.

Since May 10, 2024, I have learned valuable lessons from my journey:

• I should have taken this leap sooner. Everyone told me this would happen.
• My husband was my number one supporter and encouraged me to pursue this path sooner; I held myself back.
• I often wonder how I managed both careers while maintaining a family life.
• The journey has been characterized by significant lows and incredible highs, none of which I would ever change.
• Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. The role of a business owner can be lonely at times, with moments of doubt, but staying close to those who support and think like you is crucial.
• I am immensely grateful for my corporate experience, as it has equipped me with the skills necessary to lead Koala effectively.
• There is no looking back - onward and upward!
• This is my first-ever blog post. Will it be my last?