Saying Yes to What Matters: Lessons from 11 Years of Love and Entrepreneurship

Reflecting on our 11th anniversary made me ponder deeply about the transformation Stephen and I have undergone together, particularly around the misunderstood concept of “work-life balance.” A friend’s question during our celebration dinner about our most cherished memories opened a floodgate of thoughts about our journey’s highs and lows. This journey has not just been about navigating marriage and entrepreneurship but about learning the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. It’s about understanding that saying “no” to certain things allows us to say a powerful “yes” to our most significant commitments—our family, our dreams, and each other.

Over these years, I’ve realized that balance isn’t about achieving a “perfect balance “ but about making intentional choices that align with our core values. Our path has been marked by personal struggles, growth, and moments of joy that together have shaped a rich, fulfilling life. The power of hope and faith has been a constant guide through uncertain times, helping us to build not just a business but a legacy we’re proud of.

Sharing our story isn’t merely a trip down memory lane; it’s a call to others to embrace their own journeys, with all its twists and turns. It’s an affirmation that every challenge and joy is a step toward a deeper understanding of what it means to live a life true to oneself. It’s a reminder that in the pursuit of our dreams, it’s crucial to prioritize, to say “no” when necessary, so our “yes” has the impact and the power we intend.

As we continue on this journey, our hope is to inspire others to find their own path of balance, hope, and faith. To understand that life’s true balance isn’t found in a perfect schedule but in the moments we choose to prioritize what matters most. Whether it’s in the way we manage our time, the decisions we make for our health, or the dreams we dare to chase, it’s the intentional choices that carve the path to a life filled with purpose and joy.

So here’s to embracing the complexity of life, to finding joy in the balance of giving and receiving, and to making every choice count. In this dance of life, let’s remember that our “no” isn’t just about refusal—it’s a declaration of what truly matters to us. It’s a testament to the values we hold dear, the dreams we chase, and the legacy we wish to leave.

Let’s make our journey one of intentional living, embracing each moment with love, gratitude, and the courage to choose our path. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and loving more deeply than ever before. Together, let’s continue to dream big, lean into the hard conversations, and celebrate the victories, big and small.