When 'Suddenly' Comes a Knocking

by Yvonne Pouliot

I never fully realized just how sudden suddenly can be, and how you can never be prepared for the moment-unless of course you dare to dream.

Contrary to most, I NEVER knew or thought, much less conceptualized the " I want to start and run my own business."

I knew I was good at my job not to mention the fact that I enjoyed the security of benefits, salary, bonus, awards, and the occasional 'thank you' that would trickle down from the Management Halls of Corporate Greatness. Going to work was my passion, not only because it always paid for the bills, but the fact that my reputation for pro-active management, organization and efficiency had earned me the privilege taking chaos and turning it into order. Not just manageable order but profitable order.

I had just started a new job with Small Business Owner who offered a variety of services. His 27 years of excellence were clearly evident in the fact that he had over 1,700 plus clients. But years of 'administrative oversight, disorder and chaos' were beginning to take their toll. Over the next 2 months, I began bringing order to his world and loving the challenges that came along with it - until 'suddenly' came a knocking and the 'ordinary days' in my life ended.

That day, I had opened up the office and settled into my routine, just like I always did. Mr. Owner arrived, politely greeted me and hurried off to his office. Around 10:00 AM, I readied myself for our normal 'business ' meeting and softly knocked on his door. "Come in " said the warm and friendly voice...

It must have happened right when I opened the door for it was at that precise moment when 'suddenly' I knew this was not our business as usual meeting. I sat down, keenly aware that 'something' unexpected was about to happen and it did. Mr Owner cheerfully announced he was closing the doors and retiring. Just like that-suddenly.

I don't remember much about the days that followed other than the fact that it was close to Thanksgiving. We had decided to spend the holiday with family in Arkansas. It was a wonderful time and I enjoyed visiting with long time no see friends and family. Shortly after our return, Mr.Owner had invited us out to dinner. It was a lovely restaurant with signs of Christmas festivities everywhere. Just as we stepped out of the car 'suddenly' came a knocking once more. But this time, I smiled feeling completely empowered by it's arrival. My heart kept racing as the unexpected came closer and closer. I quietly waited for the all too familiar cues that come with any 'suddenly' moment with great anticipation knowing it would come. And it did. Finally. Mr Owner turned to me and asked, " So, any future plans?" My spirit soared in the thrill of the moment. I smiled and with a calmness and steadfast assurance said: "Yes, I am planning to launch my business in January" .

I never fully realized just how sudden suddenly can be, and how you can never be prepared for the moment-unless of course you dare to dream. Up until then, I didn't know I was launching my business, I didn't even have a business name! Yet, from the moment I spoke those words, I can only tell you how joyous it has been to exchange my well chartered journey through life for what has become the most fascinating unguided tour ever! Not a day goes by that is not filled with an adventure of some sort or another, in a world of dreams come true. You can be sure, whenever 'suddenly' comes a knocking, I will be on the look out for hidden treasures always follow close behind, waiting for those who dare to dream.

About the Author

Yvonne A. Pouliot, of ProAdvantage OrganiZette, a Dallas, Texas-based consulting group, helps individual entrepreneurs and small businesses develop business plans, marketing strategies, and process and project management systems, as well as the essential managerial and organizational skills needed to excel in today's business community. For additional information, call (214) 561-6763 today.