As the new year approaches, I am reflecting on quite the year I have had in my business. Yes, I am a lawyer. But, I am also a small business owner. I started out this year as a solo practitioner, running my own office, and grew my business this fall by taking over as the managing shareholder in an established law firm. Needless to say, it's been quite a year. The new year makes me reflect on all the people that have supported me and my small business.

I want to thank my clients. Serving them by helping them plan for abundant life and passing their legacies, or helping through difficult times in their life, is the reason I do what I do. Sometimes you need some help planning, or navigating the waters of a death, custody dispute, or divorce. I thrive on being able to help you through that.

I want to thank my staff. Truly, I could not do what I do without my amazing support staff. They help me balance the needs of each client, keep me on track, and make me look good. Do not be fooled: I am only as good as the people that help me get through the day. I think they are pretty awesome.

I want to thank my trusted advisors. In my business, as in all small businesses, I am dependent upon the assistance of my banker, accountant, and other advisors. Today, I could not be where I am – or have my own business – without them. Indeed (after my husband), the first person who really believed that I could open my own business was my small-business banker. She helped me obtain the funding I needed to open, and helped me take the leap into self-employment. Without my advisors, I wouldn't be here.

I want to thank those who have made referrals to me. I am dependent upon referrals and recommendations for business. My reputation is my most valuable asset. Thank you so much for trusting me with your friends and family by recommending me to them.

Finally, I want to thank my family. Small business ownership is not for the faint of heart, nor is it ever just the effort of the “owner.” My entire family has poured into this effort. Even my children have gotten into the act, helping move me into my office and putting stamps on envelopes. (Look, kids. Stickers.) My clients and my family are why I do this. I do not doubt that it would not be possible without either of them.

This is a personal note of thanks to so many people. But every small business owner in this community, and beyond, similarly thanks their clients, staff, advisors, referral sources, and family. We know your value, and we cherish it. Thank you and happy New Year.