Leading By Example

For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to be the boss. No, seriously—I knew I wanted to have my own business and be able to lead others. What I didn’t know was how much work went into owning a company, managing day-to-day operations, and earning the trust of those who chose to join me on this journey. I underestimated just how important relationships would be in building a successful business.

This blog isn’t just about business; it’s about the journey of a young girl from a small town, who grew up on free and reduced lunch, and who built something from the ground up. It’s about grit, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about who you become along the way. Staying relevant and successful takes more than ambition; it takes resilience, a strong backbone, and the ability to keep pushing forward even when obstacles are thrown your way.

If you had told my 10-year-old self that one day I would run a business that fosters genuine connections with people all over the country, I would have laughed. The idea that I would be able to build meaningful relationships with individuals I don’t even see every day would have seemed impossible. The world has evolved so quickly—what once felt like science fiction in Star Wars is now our daily reality.

Through it all, my foundation has been built on faith, family, and relentless hard work. There were times when I had nothing—no safety net, no guarantees—but my faith kept me moving forward. I have always believed that when you operate with integrity, when you choose to do the right thing even when no one is watching, success follows. It may not come easy, and it may not come fast, but it will come.



My family has also been at the core of everything I do. They are my why—why I push harder, why I refuse to quit, and why I strive to create something lasting. The lessons I’ve learned—from sacrifice to discipline—came from my husband, the man who fell in love with me when we were just kids. He saw something in me that I never saw in myself and continues to work hard every single day so I can pursue my dreams. Though I’ve come far, there is still work to do to get where I want to be, and I am committed to pushing forward every day. My family continues to shape the way I lead today. Success is not just about financial gain; it’s about creating something meaningful, about lifting others up, and about leaving a legacy that matters.

So, if you’re someone with a dream, wondering if you have what it takes, know this: success isn’t just for the privileged, the well-connected, or the ones who start with everything in place. It’s for those who refuse to quit, who work harder than anyone else, and who stand firm in their values even when the road gets tough. Integrity, faith, and family will guide you—and the rest, well, that’s up to you.

Previous
Previous

Celebrate 70 Years of Happiness!

Next
Next

Who is Amy Blades? Leading with Faith, Family, and Inclusion