Celebrating Our Sidekicks

The Original Sidekick

It’s my wife’s birthday today. So I’m taking a moment to publicly acknowledge someone who rarely gets the credit she deserves:

Suzy is the original Self-Employment Sidekick.

She’s been kickin’ it by my side long before this newsletter or YouTube channel existed, before I started my full-time self-employment journey, or… heck, before I even started my full-time regular employment journey. She’s been a constant source of support and encouragement.

She’s not my “business partner,” technically. But I couldn’t run my business without her.

She is my motivation. Not just in a “my heart beats for you” sorta way, but in a “okay, you’ve talked about this long enough, here’s a clear goal and a few practical next steps to help you build momentum” sorta way.

She’s been the voice of reason when I’m spiraling in uncertainty. A sounding board when I’m stuck. A very patient listener when I need to decompress. She simplifies when I overcomplicate.

She believes in me when I don’t.

I often say that self-employment shouldn’t be by-yourself-employment. But it should go without saying that life shouldn’t be by-yourself-life either (not as clever, but all the more true).

Thankfully, I’m very much not by myself. I’m surrounded by a lot of great people: friends, family, collaborators, clients, and coaches. Suzy is the MVP, of course. But I’m grateful to God for everyone I get to share my life with.

Lean Into Relationships

As you build your business - and your life - don’t forget: it’s not just about you.

And you were never meant to do this alone.

Life is richer, more meaningful, and way more sustainable when we stop trying to be the lone hero, and start embracing the beauty of having sidekicks.

Whether it’s a spouse, a close friend, a mentor, a mastermind group, or your Tuesday lunch crew - other people are the soil where your best self takes root and grows.

Not surface-level “business connections,” but real friendships.

The kind that cheer you on and kick your butt when needed.

The kind that see your potential and help you rise up into it.

These relationships don’t just happen. They take time and intention.

So please, don’t neglect to nurture them.

Bake a Cake (or at Least Buy One from Aldi)

Who are the people in your life who make you better?

Who keeps you grounded, focused, and moving forward when you’re tempted to stall out or give up?

If someone comes to mind, reach out today and thank them.

Send a text. Write a card. Make them a cake.

Even if it’s not their birthday.