THE FIVE JOYS OF A FAMILY BUSINESS

by Dan Hussey
In 1976, when I was still in high school, my father opened a small retail office supply company. He made me a partner in the business, which as I look back now, was a very generous gesture.
That was over 40 years ago, and with the exception of a few years, I have been working with family ever since.
In those beginning days, it was just dad and me, working long hours and building a startup company. I recall my salary was $50 per week! Maybe that’s why he had to make me a partner.
Now, my dad is gone. He is buried here in Prescott, but enjoying his new digs in heaven. I have a picture of him and mom on my desk, and often think of them and miss their presence in my life.
And this brings me to my first JOY: unique memories.
Working with dad allowed me to know him as a man, a businessman and a community leader. I had more time with him than any of my siblings. We spent several years together in day-to-day interaction. This extended time allowed me to know him on a deep level, and be influenced by his life and example. I have wonderful memories of those early days, and experiencing my dad’s indomitable spirit and energy. None of that would have been possible without our small, family-owned office supply store, in downtown La Puente, California.
In 1988, I moved to Prescott and purchased a little, struggling flooring company. This allowed me the opportunity to work with family again. Over the years, my father, mother, sister, brother, nephews and sister-in-law were employed in our store. JOY #2: Helping family. Owning a company allows you to bless your family in ways otherwise impossible. Helping your family is a wonderful feeling.
Currently, my wife and I own Totally Floored, in Prescott Valley. We work together most days. Many people part ways with family in the morning, and will not see a loved one until evening. Thus, JOY #3: Being around those you love. This world can be a tough place. We all need special people that look out for us, encouraging us and sharing hugs and kisses. With Julie here at the store, we enjoy each other every day. When our special song plays on the sound system we dance together in the warehouse, reminding us of our wedding and the commitment and love we share. It is always a bright spot in the week.
Together, we make a strong team, and create a pleasurable place to work. JOY #4: Family brings value. Julie brings a great deal of common sense and wisdom to our operation. Without her steady hand and eagle-eye on the checkbook, we wouldn’t be as strong as we are. Family members bring a shared desire for the business to succeed, and offer exceptional value to the company.
Sometimes when people come in to the store, and they have had a distressing situation in their life, we ask them if we can pray for them and try to encourage them. JOY #5: Sharing our values. Family-owned businesses can offer a personal touch. We develop friendships and have agility to meet pressing needs.
We’re Dan and Julie Hussey, with Totally Floored, and we warmly invite you to visit our family business!