
Hello, 2025!
True story, it has taken me a while to post because all of January I was at a standstill. As I sit here reflecting on the year ahead, I can’t help but marvel at the journey that’s brought me to this point. It’s hard to believe I’ve been an entrepreneur since 2005. In 2007, I took a leap of faith, leaving my full-time job to chase my dream of building a business in real estate. No formal business training, no roadmap, just determination, passion, and the willingness to learn.
Fast forward 20 years, and here I am, still amazed by what I’ve been able to accomplish – with plenty of help and lessons along the way.
These days, entrepreneurship is everywhere. It is glorified, celebrated, and often seen as the ultimate alternative to the traditional workforce. It’s easier now, in many ways, with resources, technology, and social media making the journey feel more accessible. But if I’ve learned anything, it’s that the foundation for lasting success often comes from experiences you never expected to draw from.
For me, my 20 years in corporate America were invaluable. I spent those years working as an administrative assistant to CEOs, earning my associate’s degree in the evenings, and later, getting my real estate license and in 2023 finally finishing my bachelor’s degree. Little did I know, those moments were equipping me with skills I’d use every day in my business:

✨ Structure and Processes: Building systems and workflows that create consistency and scalability.
✨ Networking: Cultivating professional relationships that spark opportunities and growth.
✨ Time Management: Mastering prioritization, delegation, and focus.
✨ Adaptability: Learning to pivot and remain flexible in the face of change.
✨ Financial Acumen: Understanding cash flow, budgets, and profitability.
✨ Leadership: Fostering a positive culture and leading by example.
✨ Customer Focus: Prioritizing exceptional service and meeting client needs.
✨ Strategic Thinking: Aligning daily actions with long-term goals.
✨ Professional Development: Staying curious and learning continuously.
✨ Compliance and Risk Management: Navigating regulations to protect the business.
✨ Marketing and Branding: Establishing a consistent and authentic identity.
✨ Accountability: Measuring progress and staying results-oriented.
Looking back, I didn’t realize how much those corporate experiences were shaping the businessperson I am today. Sitting in meetings, observing how large organizations operate, and engaging with executives provided me with a kind of on-the-job training I couldn’t have planned for.
Did I know this was the path I was preparing for? Not at all. But it’s why I’m such a believer in being a lifelong learner—you never know where those lessons will take you.
As I celebrate 11 years as the Owner of Ware Realty Group and 18 years since stepping away from “Corporate America” (is that still a term we use? 😊), I’m grateful for the journey, the growth, and the opportunities ahead.
Here’s to a new year (what’s left of it) filled with possibility, reflection, and continued learning.