Don’t over think the title of this post. You can sing the Toby Keith song if you want. I sort of did when I wrote it. I grew up in Oklahoma, the same as Toby, but this post really has nothing to do with a drinking song, but more about how my business came to exist.
The Sun Rises & The Sun Sets
When I decided it was time to become my own boss, I was concerned that it was going to be a challenge. I had some doubts about how to form a business entity. I read books, websites, and other publications to understand the process. I am thankful for my attorney. I gave him a scribbled handwritten paper with my proposed company wishlist. After a couple of hour’s worth of back and forth questions, a company name and a corporate structure were determined.
I signed all the documentation to form a limited liability company. The attorney submitted the necessary paperwork to the appropriate state and federal channels. On June 8, 2020, I started as a solo pest control owner/operator with my business, Horizon Pest Solutions, LLC. And so, a new day begins… every day…pest free.
It’s All About The Truck
I chose a business name, and now I needed a truck to get myself, and the necessary supplies, to the customer. I searched all the local car dealerships for my perfect conference room on wheels. I kept thinking about how my competitors had white vehicles. I needed to be different, as I have never been one to blend in with the crowd. I am a huge fan of Nissan branded autos, and found one that was just my style. RED!
While other pest control businesses blend in with traffic, my big red truck is like a stoplight. It makes people take notice. One customer said the logo, and other information, on my truck is easy to read – even at 70mph highway speeds. Unwanted insect activity makes a potential customer get “red in the face” mad. Well, now they can associate this reaction with calling “the sunny company with the red truck.”
My Friends Are The Reason I Drink
I know I said this wasn’t about a drinking song, but hang with me. Let me explain.
I have a best friend, but I also have some of the best friends. I can count on all of them for nonsense conversation. They calm me whenever I’m having a meltdown, give me a shoulder when I need to cry, or flick my head when I should just chill.
This behavior from friends is all because they care about me, as a living, breathing human, and because they know I am sometimes a handful. All that said, I am lucky they are all part of my life.
This cup was really the inspiration for me starting my own business.
A friend gave it to me when she knew I needed some encouragement, even when she had her own struggles. I’m not sure that Randi knew what kind of impact this would have on my life and career, but I owe gratitude. It’s my favorite drink holder. It’s had many a beverage in it, but the ultimate message remains the same. I Believe In You. I know she’s not the only friend who wishes me well, but she gave me this inspiration at exactly the right time.
Not The End, A Beginning
As I continue to drive my RED service truck as a SOLO owner/operator, I will continue to fill my CUP with the knowledge that my friends continue to be a blessing.
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