Anyone who has ventured into self-employment knows it comes with its own set of rewards and obstacles. The greatest blessing is the potential for increased income and the freedom to pursue other interests. However, many business owners, especially in the early stages, find themselves tied to their work, often facing financial struggles and a lack of time.

The ultimate goal for every entrepreneur is to transition from the challenges to the rewards of business ownership. My own journey of building a company from the ground up has been a fulfilling one. One of the most rewarding aspects has always been the opportunity to connect with new people, many of whom become valued customers. Additionally, running a tree service in Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington has its perks; the business operates seasonally from April through October, allowing for a significant break during the winter months.

Owning Northern Lakes Tree Service has not only provided my family and I with financial stability but also the time to give back to our community and beyond. In 1999, we established a halfway house for teens in Coeur d'Alene, and from 2000 to 2004, we traveled to Mexico and Belize during the winters to help build community centers and distribute food and clothing.

In the spring of 2005, I began numerous trips to Haiti, a country deeply affected by the 2010 earthquake. We organized teams from various states—including Washington, the Midwest, Arizona, and Idaho—to support the Haitian people in their recovery efforts.

My wife, with her passion for helping children, has led our family to purchase hundreds of outfits for kids in a small fishing village in the Philippines each Christmas for the past three years.

The ability to engage in these meaningful projects stems from the blessings of being self-employed. It has given us the financial resources and time to assist those in need, making our entrepreneurial journey truly rewarding.