From One-Woman Show to CEO

The journey from one-woman show to CEO has been both empowering and humbling, but always educational. What I’m most proud of is showing my kids (James, 13, and Lily Kate, 11) what it means to believe in an idea and work hard to bring it to life. My kids are both in Middle School, so most of their lives, they’ve seen me working toward achieving my goals. They’ve helped me along the way (like holding the door for me at FedEx as I carried in cartons in the pouring rain!) and fully understand that it takes many small steps to achieve anything big. Now they constantly have new business ideas of their own, which has been a real highlight for me!?

Another standout moment was when I experienced an unexpected twist that involved a colossal financial error.

A large retailer once accidentally overpaid by $1.3 million. I woke up and saw a number in my bank account that I’d only dreamed of achieving—but not this way! When I called the company to sort it out, it was almost like a hot potato—no one in their accounting department wanted to touch it, because they couldn’t figure out how it had happened, and didn’t want to be associated with the mistake. It was such a mess that no one had any idea how to electronically get the money back, so it ended with me hand writing a check for $1.3 million and dropping it in the mail. That night, I slept better than I had in weeks!

My best advice to others??

Keep going! There are so many roadblocks and dead ends on the entrepreneurial journey, but also an equal number of exhilarating moments and gratifying accomplishments. Push through, and there’s probably something wonderful right around the corner.

Additionally, use LinkedIn! I always knew it was there, but I didn’t appreciate its power. When you know better, you do better . . . which is why I’m going to make an effort to use LinkedIn moving forward. Readers, please connect with me on LinkedIn! :)

• Marissa Gurdian,? Owner and CEO of ILI KIDS, Sweet Paws?

I can’t help but reflect on the influence family can have on our professional pursuits. Marissa’s inclusion of her children in her entrepreneurial endeavors is heartwarming and enlightening. They witnessed firsthand the dedication, hard work and resilience it takes to turn a vision into reality. These experiences help instill a strong work ethic, sense of determination and the belief that they too can achieve their dreams. Involving them strengthens family bonds and imparts a sense of responsibility and teamwork. The influence of family can make all the difference in our pursuit of success and fulfillment while positively shaping the aspirations of the next generation.?

Just as family provides a strong foundation to our professional pursuits, integrity and personal growth are also part of the journey. As our loved ones inspire us to reach for the stars, they also remind us of the importance of staying true to our values and principles. It is our integrity that guides us to make ethical decisions, even when the easy path may tempt us otherwise. Our commitment to honesty and ethical behaviors not only preserves our reputation, but sets a powerful example for our children that reinforces the importance of doing what is right, not what is convenient.??

The sense of relief Marissa felt after returning the money is palpable. It speaks to the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies entrepreneurship - the sleepless nights, the stress, the triumphs and the setbacks. It’s a reminder that the challenges and the solutions we devise for them provides the most profound sense of satisfaction and growth.?

Marissa’s story touches on the universal themes of family, integrity, resilience and professional growth. It’s a personal journey that reminds us of the intimate connection between our personal lives and our professional endeavors. She reinforces the idea that our experiences, both good and challenging, shape the paths we forge in the business world.??

Embrace the powerful connection between your personal life and professional journey and align your values as you forge your unique path to success!?

If you would like to be featured in a future newsletter article,submit your story and let your experience inspire and motivate others.