12/28/2024
⨠Closing the Chapter on Neat-Dough āØ
Today marks an official ending for Neat-Dough as I shut down its website. Truthfully, the decision to close the chapter was made some time ago, but the act of deactivating the site made it feel real. Itās funny how something as simple as a website can make a business feel tangibleāto the world, to customers, and even to an entrepreneur. Itās a topic I recently discussed with my father-in-law, who is embarking on his own entrepreneurial journey.
The decision to close Neat-Dough wasnāt easy. I wrestled with itāover and over. So much time, effort, and heart went into building this business. It brought joy, challenges, and inspiration not just to me, but to others too. At its height, Neat-Dough felt like the perfect creative outlet. But as life evolved and priorities shifted, it became clear that it was time to step away.
Even as I pressed ādeactivateā on the online store, I had moments of doubt. But then, I read a post from another entrepreneur reflecting on the sacrifices theyād madeāmissing important moments, even a funeral, for their business. That struck a chord with me. A sense of calm and clarity washed over me.
This is why I closed Neat-Dough. The sacrifices no longer aligned with the life I want to live. Could Neat-Dough have continued to grow? Yes. Do I think about the impact it might have had? Absolutely. But I know this was the right choice for me.
For the first time in years, I spent my November and December fully present with my familyāmaking memories instead of stressing over craft shows and fulfilling orders. Each time I thought about how things used to be, that same peace settled over me.
Entrepreneurship is full of sacrifices. Iāve made them. But my priorities have shifted, and Iām no longer willing to make those same trade-offs. This doesnāt mean Iāve closed the door on entrepreneurship foreverājust for now. Iām cherishing the time I have with my kids while theyāre still young, soaking in every fleeting moment.
Seasons change, priorities evolve, and thatās okay.
Hereās to honoring the lessons and growth from Neat-Dough while embracing this new chapter with gratitude and peace. šāØ
Thank you to everyone who supported Neat-Dough along the wayāyouāve made this journey so special. š