The Gift of Flexibility: Why Running My Own Business is Worth Every Challenge

The Gift of Flexibility: Why Running My Own Business is Worth Every Challenge

Some days, running my own business feels like trying to halter a colt who’s never seen a rope before—wild, unpredictable, and a little stubborn. But other days, it feels like the greatest gift I could ever give myself and my family.

One of the biggest blessings of owning Broker Leather is the flexibility it allows me as a mother. Sure, there are late nights, unexpected hurdles, and the constant mental checklist of things I should be doing—but there’s also the quiet, slow mornings with my daughters, where we aren’t racing against the clock or rushing to catch a bus. Instead, we ease into the day together, setting the tone with calm conversations, hot breakfasts, and unhurried moments that I hope will stay with them long after they’ve grown.

I truly believe this rhythm of life has shaped them into the easy-going, adaptable girls they are. They don’t start their mornings in a whirlwind of chaos, and I don’t start mine feeling like I’ve already lost a race before 8 a.m. We get to breathe, connect, and step into the day feeling grounded—something I know would be much harder if I were tied to a strict schedule outside the home.

That’s not to say entrepreneurship is easy. There are plenty of days when I question if I’m doing it right, when the weight of responsibilities feels heavy, or when I miss out on things because running a business means always thinking three steps ahead. And lately, there’s been a new challenge—one that every small business owner eventually faces. Copycats.

The reality is, when you put your heart and soul into something, someone will always try to take a shortcut and replicate it. I see it happening all around me—others trying to mirror what I’ve built, borrowing ideas, and hoping to capture the same magic. But what they don’t realize is that it’s not just the boots, the branding, or the store itself that makes Broker Leather what it is. It’s me. It’s the late nights, the early mornings, the personal connection with my customers, and the unwavering belief that what I do matters.

I refuse to let imitation shake my confidence or make me question the path I’ve built. Instead, I stand taller. I stay true to myself. I lean into what makes my business unique, knowing that authenticity always outlasts imitation.

And speaking of authenticity—there may be some big changes on the horizon. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the future of Broker Leather and where I want to take it next. The flexibility that I’ve been so grateful for has given me space to dream, plan, and push toward something even greater. Change can be scary, but so is standing still when you know you’re meant for more.

So, to those who have supported me, shopped with me, and believed in this brand—I see you, and I thank you. The road ahead may look a little different, but I promise you, it’ll be worth the ride.

I’d love to hear more about you and what you love most about Broker Leather! Take a few moments to fill out my Get To Know My Herd survey —your feedback helps shape the future of this brand we’re building together.