When we ask better questions, we get better answers. We develop an ability to anticipate and pivot. And it starts on the inside.  Instead of asking what do I need to do first, I ask who do I need to be?  My answer is be brave, be a risk taker, lean into what is hard and when I fall, get back up!

Some of you may have read my 2024 email on GRIT. I shared my story of going into the Moaning Caverns.

It was 165 feet down, 235 steps, and back up. Long story short my worst fear happened when I took a fall and had to move out of the way to let others pass.   The last 65 feet up were slow and painful, pulling myself up with the handrail each step, but I made it to the surface and celebrated; I did it!!! It was hard, and I just took one step at a time.

I read an email from Tony Robbins recently that strikes me as appropriate to my topic. He is talking about the Olympians who went to Paris. He said:

“The world’s greatest athletes prepared for their big moment—the chance to represent their cou...

Celebrating 21 Years of Grit: Lessons from Building a Notary Business

This January marks 21 years since I began my journey as a notary public. Mobile notaries were a small profession when I started, and the road to building a sustainable business was far from clear. Looking back, I can see that grit—the passion and perseverance to keep going despite setbacks—was the key ingredient that got me here.

From assignments that went sideways to uncooperative facilities and misinformed signers, I’ve faced more challenges than I can count. Yet, each one taught me invaluable lessons and helped shape the business I proudly celebrate today.

The Challenges That Built My Grit

Unpredictable Assignments

Early on, I took on signings in assisted living facilities and hospitals. These settings often came with complications—unprepared signers, misunderstandings about what notaries can and cannot do, and the occasional attempt to renegotiate fees after I’d arrived.

I learned that preparation was my ...