7 things I’ve learned in 7 years

May 9, 2022 img
By Dean Weston

It feels like only yesterday that we threw open the doors to Progress Fire Co. and crossed everything that the risk would pay off and it would be a success.  

Fast forward seven years, and here we are, celebrating an incredible milestone.  

I’ll be honest. I generally don’t make a big deal about these kinds of anniversaries. As a small business owner, I can easily get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to stop to celebrate the smaller victories, but this one is worthy of reflection.  

The last seven years have been a rollercoaster, with as many learning opportunities as triumphs. So, what have I learned since starting Progress Fire Co. with my business partner, Greg? 

The importance of being disciplined

If you asked my wife about my time management skills, she’d probably say I’m a work in progress, but I get better every day. Being disciplined is so important in small business. You need to set boundaries and stick to them, or you’ll be working 14-hour days, seven days a week. I’ve been there.

That giving back is important and meaningful

Personally, I have always given back to my local community. It’s a part of who I am. As a small business owner, I have also learned about the importance of corporate philanthropy, about helping those in need. We are in an enviable position. We should give generously and support our community. Progress Fire Co. will be doing a lot more of this in the future.  

That your team is your greatest asset – always  

No matter what business you’re in, without a strong, talented, passionate, loyal, hardworking team, you have nothing. We are very blessed at Progress Fire Co., and Greg and I understand we are here, today, celebrating seven years because of our people. Special thanks to Bennett, Andy, Nick, Gavin, Liam, Blake, Caleb, Tom, and Kelsea. We really do appreciate you all.  

The value of loyalty

“Respect is earned, honesty is appreciated, trust is gained, and loyalty is returned.” What a great quote! Over the last seven years, I have learned to appreciate the power of loyalty, with our staff and our clients. Some of our clients have been with us since day one, and we are just as loyal to them as they are to us. Loyalty is the basis of any trusted relationship.  

That what doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger 

One word: Covid. We didn’t just survive, we thrived, as I explored in my recent blog. How? Because we focused on being agile, and we came through stronger for the experience, as a business, a team, and as individuals.  

That it’s crucial to stop every now and again to celebrate and reflect on your victories  

I’ll admit that this is a recent lesson I’ve learned. I’m not so good at taking the time to stop and celebrate our wins and achievements. But it’s important, not just as the owner of the business, but for the team as a whole. So, one of my commitments to the Progress Fire Co. family (and yes, it’s here in writing so you can hold me to it) is to become better at this. Watch this space. 

The importance of loving what you do

t sounds cliché, but I really do love what I do. I get up every day and look forward to what’s ahead. Have the last seven years been easy? No. But have they been worth it? Absolutely. And now I get to focus on doing what we do better, being innovative, providing even more value. That’s exciting to me!  

To our families, clients, and team members (aka our work family)– thank you for your support over the last seven years. We couldn’t have done it without you! 

Happy 7th birthday, Progress Fire Co.  

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