Dakx Turcotte

1.5 years ago, my life changed.

We’re early September 2011 when I am writing this.

1.5 years ago, my life changed. I decided to launch my first (100%) own business. No start-ups with others, no corporate credit card, no outside financing: two partners, myself and faith (and a very comprehensive & patient girlfriend).

Quick Summary:

• Launched with no precise business idea or business plan.
• Decided to look for opportunities with 2 guys I knew I could work well with (team mattered most).
• Decided to focus on consulting while we built our thing (even if consulting has never been my thing), but with a twist: focus on sales & performance.
• Studied a few business opportunities and decided on buying one.
• Learned I was to be a daddy!

The Good(s):

• We passed our 1st year profitable. But… (see The Bad(s) for more).
• I am learning (more of) my own strengths everyday.
• I discovered a new friend, one that will most likely be one forever.
• Am having a blast at working for a great company & for a great president for my first official consulting gig… And I think know they like what we do for them as well!! :)
• We have our own software, business project & steady revenue stream.

The Bad(s):

• We finished our 1st year profitable, but discovered the true meaning of “Accounts Receivables”. A (good & long time) customer had a bad financial situation and owes us $60k+. Impact: we own the government tax money we don’t have, we can’t pay ourselves, we have to look into our 401k to meet ends, we have to re-work our business plan & a partner is thinking of leaving.
• Learned what it means to “downscale” your lifestyle, a.k.a: make half the money you used to… It really sucks ass!
• Learned that even if you have a great lawyer, you’ll forget something that might cost you.
• Building a website is not easy! It takes time, more than you think. Can’t wait to see the result!
• I have more weaknesses than I thought, not easy to learn.

The Conclusion:

• I’m tired, but that’s OK!
• We’ll see where this all brings us but I feel very confident.
• I’m learning a lot. I’m discovering strengths about myself I never knew I had.
• I learned to pause & listen, and am still learning. At work and at home!

2011 & 2012 will be challenging nonetheless. And I’m looking forward to it.

Dakx