The Marriage of Business and Life: Lessons from 20 Years of Love, Growth, and Teamwork

As I reflect upon the impending celebration of 20 wonderful years of marriage this weekend, it's difficult not to see the clear parallels between the journey of building a strong marriage and steering successful teams in business. It might sound unconventional to some, but I find these two worlds intersecting more than we might initially expect.

1. The Art of Compromise: Both in business and marriage, the ability to compromise is essential. It's about finding a balance, giving and taking in equal measures. It's not always about being right, but about what's best for the team or the relationship. Successful negotiations at work, like successful discussions at home, rely on this principle.

2. Friendship Over Everything: While love forms the cornerstone of a marriage, the essence of being best friends makes it thrive. Similarly, in business, respect and professional admiration are essential, but fostering deeper bonds of friendship within your team breeds loyalty, understanding, and a supportive work culture that encourages growth.

3. Keep Anger at Bay: We've all heard the age-old advice, "Don't go to bed angry." This advice holds true not only in marriage but in business. Resentments, if left unresolved, foster in silence and become unmanageable issues. Address conflicts promptly, honestly, and openly, so they don't fester and affect overall team morale and productivity.

4. Make Time for Each Other: In the whirlwind of raising three children and managing busy careers, carving out time for each other has been challenging, yet vital. In a team, it's crucial to create space for one-on-one interactions. Taking the time to really connect on a personal level builds mutual respect and understanding, key to a healthy working environment.

5. Supporting Dreams and Aspirations: In a marriage, supporting each other's dreams is a beautiful expression of love. Similarly, in a business context, fostering an environment where everyone's aspirations are valued cultivates an atmosphere of mutual support. Recognizing and utilizing each other's strengths while providing a safety net for weaknesses boosts team synergy and innovation.

6. Facing Challenges Together: Our 20-year journey has seen its fair share of challenges. The ability to face them together and navigate the stormy seas of change is a testament to resilience. The same goes for any business or team. Facing challenges head-on, embracing change, and providing a united front are markers of a strong and dynamic team.

7. Doubling Down When Things Get Tough: In marriage, when things get tough, we don't run; we face it together. Similarly, when businesses face turbulence, abandoning ship is not the solution. Instead, double down, strategize, and face challenges with determination. It builds resilience and paves the way for growth and success.

8. Having Fun Together: Lastly, amidst all the seriousness, never forget to have fun! The joy we find in each other's company in marriage also mirrors the fun we need to cultivate in our work environments. Celebrating small victories, laughing together, and creating shared moments of joy can transform a work team into a work family.

As I celebrate these two decades of love, friendship, and growth, it's evident how my marital journey has informed my professional approach. The marathon of marriage, like business, is a complex, ever-evolving landscape that tests your patience, resilience, and spirit. Embrace it, learn from it, and remember to enjoy the journey.

Here's to another 20 years of love, learning, and leadership! ??

I am so thankful for my wife Amanda Norris Amanda Norris A.S. for choosing me to be on her life journey with her. I cannot think of a better friend, partner, and mother. You are amazing, inspirational, and I love you very much!

XOXO

BN