Four Years, Four Lessons, For You

It’s our birthday! CAULIPOWER is officially four years old and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished. We had a vision. We took a risk (ok, many). We worked hard. We’ve made mealtime a better (and more delicious) moment for everyone at the table. And, in the process, I learned something new each and every day.

As CAULIPOWER turns the ripe young age of four, I find myself reminiscing on all the exciting and downright frightening moments I’ve had since I decided to bet everything on, well, a vegetable! Sharing a few here just in case any of you might be considering making the leap.

#1: People will tell you you’re crazy

And that’s ok! They’ll wonder why you would give up the safety and security of your current situation for something as risky as starting your own business. And you know what? That’s OK! They told me I was crazy. What do you mean you want to make a pizza crust out of cauliflower? they asked. What if it doesn’t work? they wondered. You’re nuts! they said.

I heard them. But I didn’t listen.

Let them say what they want,and then do what you do. Be single-minded. Focus. Tune out the noise. And always remember the words of Steve Jobs: The people who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world are the ones who do.

So if they’re calling you crazy, maybe that’s not such a bad thing.

#2: It’s OK not to know everything

Four years ago, the only thing I knew about food was that I bought it, cooked it and ate it. I surrounded myself with people who came from the food industry and I picked their brains every single day, soaking up advice and information like a sponge. The important thing is knowing how much you don’t know, and then learning something from the people around you every day.

#3: It’s never too late to get started

I started CAULIPOWER after many years in corporate America. It doesn’t matter what stage of life you’re in or how old you are. If you have the passion, what signs are you waiting for? Maybe you weren’t ready until this moment, when we’re all so aware that life can change in, quite literally, a moment.

If the pandemic has taught us anything it’s that life is fragile and anything can happen. What are you waiting for? It’s never too late to get started.

Go!

#4: Be each other’s cheer squad

I had plenty of help. From partners. From family. From friends. From trusted advisors. From anonymous social media commentators. Everything from candid practical advice to enthusiastic pep talks to a simple word of encouragement - and it all meant the world to me, and what really encouraged me to keep going.

So today, I try to return the favor as much as I can. Let’s support our fellow entrepreneurs! Buy their products. Share their businesses on social. Spread the word, even if that word is only “Hurray!”

Whatever you do, let’s be each others’ cheer squad.

You certainly have been mine, and it’s been a fantastic four years. I truly couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for such an incredible birthday. 💚