Our most basic instinct is not for survival, but for family. Most of us would give our own life for the survival of a family member, yet we lead our daily life too often as if we take our family for granted.
–Paul Pearshall
I founded my creative services company in October, and as I was sifting through my business plan to see how I was progressing, I started thinking about what prompted me to start my own business.

To be honest, it didn’t matter how much talent I thought I had. Or even though I knew I had the courage to start my own a business. It was my family’s support that pushed me into the right direction.

When I told my parents, they quickly jumped on board. They told me the sky was the limit. They warned me that it wouldn’t be easy, but their faith in me was amazing. I love the quote above, because I think it’s so true; I’m living proof. My parents haven’t given their lives for me (although I know they would), but they’ve sacrificed the finest things in life to invest in my business. They truly love me and I’m grateful for their support.

My sister, who by the way is one of the best writers and creatives I know, told me that it was my creativity, ambition and passion that would set me apart from others. The vote of confidence from my big sister was amazing—I don’t think she realizes how much she means to me.

The validation I received from my family was enough to propel me into the small business ownership arena—and I’m thankful each day for their support.

When you look at your life, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses.
–Joyce Brothers
I finally finished my Web site, and I was afraid beyond words to share it with world. The weeks of writing, designing and planning finally paid off—and I was apprehensive about what my family would think of it. The feedback I received was amazing. I was moved to tears by the genuine pleasure my family received from my personal milestone. It helped me understand that this isn’t a personal journey; my family is right by my side along the way.

I don’t care how poor a man is; if he has family, he’s rich.
–Dan Wilcox and Thad Mumford, M*A*S*H
Since I’m still in the start-up phase of my business, the profit isn’t flowing as quickly as I’d like it to be. At first, it was discouraging to think about the fact that I wasn’t getting any of the jobs I applied for, the leads were dead and how I wanted to the process to move more quickly. But I then thought about my nephew, and how much he is learning in daycare, I thought about my parents’ health and strength and I thought about how many great people I have in my life, and I began to realize that’s where my profit is—in my family.

Where do you get your support? Your spouse? Your parents? A friend?  Your God? How do you balance work with staying in touch with your support system?