Did you know that MAP Professional Development Inc. began as a subscription newsletter?
When I started the company back in 2003, I had two toddlers and a baby on the way. I had just finished my doctoral degree, was excited to continue my professional path, and also wanted to be home for my growing family. I loved professional development, learning, and writing, so Meaning and Purpose – essentially a bimonthly magazine – was born.
I conducted the interviews for this publication while my kids napped. I invested in help with design and typesetting right off the bat, before I could afford it. When I began, my subscribers included my parents, my closest friends, and one random person (who I later discovered was my best friend’s friend). Talk about a big dream and small steps!
And you know what? Over time, those small steps added up. Subscriptions started to grow. Organizations began asking me to speak on the topics about which I was writing. And I discovered the field of coaching, which has since become the primary focus of my business.
An important lesson within this lesson: Even when I only had a handful of subscribers, I wrote as if millions would read what I wrote. I gave it my all and believed 100% in what I was putting out into the world. I took small, consistent steps and, over time, they evolved into what this company is today. Perhaps it’s my midwestern roots, but I loved the Field of Dreams idea that if you build it, they will come. And I knew I needed to build it with meaning, purpose, and heart.
Yesterday I wrote about the importance of dreaming big. Today’s step builds on the premise that has guided me through the last 14 years of business ownership: Dream Big, Start Small.
What small step could you take today – right now – to begin making your big dream a reality?
As I celebrate 14 years in business this month, I’m sharing 14 lessons – one per post – that I’ve learned (many the hard way) over the years. I hope they help you work with meaning and live with purpose!