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 ...