As I get older there is something special about waking up and having a fresh start, but a fresh start that the whole world shares. Happy New Year to everyone!

2013 marks Paws & People, LLC ten year anniversary! Lots of special activities happening this year, and a new focus for our future. I want to share some things I have learned over the years, I think it’s the best way to talk about this occasion …

I have learned that training is not business and business is not training. Each one needs to be nurtured in their own way in order to have success.

Believe in what you do, but be able to back it up with knowledge, passion, and experience. The more you learn, the more you do, the more you enjoy it, the more you can offer.

I have learned that when you work with people and dogs you need to remain open and honest with your mind, body, and words. You need to be the least confusing part of the puzzle.

Listen with open ears to what is being said, watch with willingness to what is going on, but believe and act on your educated instincts. Never negate those feelings, they are almost always correct.

If a person or dogs body language is closed and is telling you to stop, even though you may see half a smile or a little tail wag, stop, that is all the information you need.

I have learned that too much of a good thing is not always good. Always strive for balance in business, relationships, and training.

Always be curious. Always. It is a good way to keep passion in your business and training.

I have learned when another similar business opens in your area, and uses your business as their model, don’t be offended, but don’t take it as a compliment either, they are trying to use your success for their own gain. Imitators can imitate all they want, but it’s your passion for what you do that is the real success, and that can never be imitated.

Listen to music, good and varied music. It keeps the heart open, the body loose, and the environment fresh.

Learn to focus with distractions, it’s simply a reality.

I have learned that every business has a slow season. Allow this season with grace. Use it to renew, to relax, and to rejuvenate.

Allow people to thank you, and allow yourself to feel this honest gratitude.

I have learned that word of mouth is the best advertising for a business. You will continually attract people that you will enjoy working with. Always thank those with a ‘big mouth’!

It isn’t about the numbers game. Strive for quality of clientele, not quantity of clientele.

Guarantee nothing, to others, to animals, or to yourself. But rather support and coach with knowledge, skills, and creativity. This is important in business and training.

And sometimes, just like in daily life, in business you get knocked down, but you have to get up quickly. Take a deep breath and spring board forward. Don’t hang on to the dirt from falling, let it go.

Focus on the prize. Always. Put your blinders on to the fuzzy, distracting, often times negative stuff, and focus on what you want for your business. Let the other stuff go.

Being open with others does not mean that you lack boundaries. Allow everyone in your business and training programs to know your rules, protocols, and procedures. It keeps everyone honest, and know one has to guess.

I have learned if I am taking a deep breath, life is good and it is happening. Always breathe.

Drink tea.

If you need help with your business or training program, seek out a mentor or professional you respect. It will catapult you to the next level.

And after a while you hit your stride. It feels good, and smooth, and effortless. But I have learned that this is not the place to be complacent. This is the place to reevaluate your business, move forward, maybe choose a new focus, or add new programs. Shake things up for yourself, and your business. Hitting your stride is a platform in which to grow again.

I have learned that what started out as my business has grown into a family business. A dream.

I hope you can all be part of our anniversary year. With love and gratitude – Nancy