An open letter from Entrepreneurs to our life partners...

Background

I'm part of a local group of entrepreneurs called Krewe de Nieux (KDN). We're all passionate about growing our businesses, improving our community (the Greater New Orleans area) and learning from each others' challenges and successes.

We decided to do something a little different for our Christmas party. Members that were bringing a spouse/life partner sent in notes of appreciation which we stuffed in personalized stockings for the event. At the event, we spoke about how none of us could be where we are without the support of our loved ones, and let them know that they may find a nice surprise in the stocking with their name on it.

It was a very joyful and fulfilling experience for all involved, and I wanted to share a speech we gave to our collective loved ones at the event. I share this because it's a universal message that all too often goes unsaid...

Speech

Thank you all for being here. 

Some time ago, be it 5 years or 15 years, each of us had a vision.

We had a vision of a meaningful way we could contribute to making the world a little bit brighter with our unique skills.

We had a vision of how we were going to create amazing value for many, many customers, create a workplace where thousands of employees could thrive on their own journeys, improve the communities we live in, and all the while getting filthy rich (cue laughter).

To say "this is easier said than done" would be the understatement of the year. There is a high price to pay for choosing the entrepreneurial life. There are unique challenges that affect our close relationships in ways that don't get talked about.

I’d like to take a minute to acknowledge that there are many entrepreneurs who have made this journey without the support of a close relationship at times, sometimes due to the stresses of running a successful business. We want to honor and support them as well during the holiday period, where everyone is trying to juggle a million personal and professional priorities.

That being said, I’m excited to see that many of you brought your loved ones to this event. We would like to let you know this: Our success and sanity would not be possible without you.

• You tolerate months if not years where we are laser-focused on our business.
• You make personal and professional sacrifices for us.
• You put up with our entrepreneurial ADHD.
• Despite our kicking and screaming, you show us our blind spots so we can become the best version of ourselves.
• You deal with us being jerks at times because of our stress levels.
• You motivate us in dark times.
• You believe in us when no one else does.
• And you celebrate with us when we finally reach the promised land.

Sometimes we fall short of showing you the depth of appreciation we feel in our hearts, and we just want you to know you mean the world to us.