As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting not just on the past twelve months, but on the journey we’ve traveled these past 19 years. Leading an IT company through almost two decades of change, growth, and innovation has been nothing short of remarkable, and yet this year has reminded me, more than ever, that our journey mirrors life itself.
As many who know us, we are the proud parents of five children, and four are teenagers. If you’ve ever parented teens, you’ll understand when I say it’s a rollercoaster ride of highs, lows, milestones, and lessons. As we watch our kids grow into young adults, I’ve realized that our business feels a lot like a teenager too. It’s full of potential, experiencing growing pains, and finding its footing in the world.
This year, the business celebrated some record-breaking achievements—the kind of moments that make you pause and feel immense pride. We’ve achieved our highest new client sales goal yet. We achieved our highest single month and quarter profit. We surpassed, for a brief period of time, a line we call ‘turning point’. These milestones are akin to those bright moments in parenting when your teenager surprises you with their brilliance and independence. For us, these records are a testament to the incredible talent, commitment, and passion of our team. They show just how far we’ve come and hint at the even greater heights we can reach.
But just like raising teens, running a business isn’t without its challenges. This year brought plenty of learning opportunities. As we’ve matured, our departments have started to operate more independently, which is both exciting and nerve-wracking. Watching them stand on their own reminds me of seeing my kids take their first solo steps into the world—whether that’s driving a car, making big decisions, or navigating friendships. Sometimes they stumble; other times they soar. Our departments, like my teenagers, have made some mistakes, but those missteps have been critical learning moments. Could I step in more often and sooner in the business and in their lives? Yes. Would it have helped short-term? In some cases, also yes. Would it have helped long-term viability? No.
We’ve faced tough decisions, adjusted strategies, and navigated the complexities of growth. Through it all, I’ve been reminded that growth isn’t linear. It’s messy, challenging, and rewarding. It’s about learning from mistakes and celebrating the victories, no matter how big or small. I still recall the lesson I call ‘the gut-wrench’, from an early mentor of mine. He told me that entrepreneurship is full of those moments of pain, it causes wincing, and you feel that internal pit. We’ve had more than a few of those moments this past year. Some of them came, not from not trying, but simply from the natural process of growth. Change and comfort are not synonymous, they say.
As we look ahead to the next year, I’m optimistic. Just as our teenagers are gradually finding their way, I’m confident that our company is on the cusp of something even greater. We’re learning, adapting, and maturing. We’re building a future where the business can thrive without being entirely dependent on me—a bittersweet but necessary evolution. The leads in each department are cutting their teeth and testing their wings.
To our incredible team, partners, and clients: thank you for being part of this journey. Your trust and support make everything possible. To our company, approaching 20 years, and ‘graduating teenhood’: here’s to embracing and coming through the teenage years—to the highs, the lows, and the limitless possibilities that come with growing into our potential.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year!
Lauren Groff