This year, Numbercrunch celebrates a significant milestone—10 years in business.
Reaching this milestone has given me an opportunity to reflect on the journey, the lessons learned, and, above all, the gratitude I feel for the experiences, people, and moments that have shaped this company.
As we head into 2025, I’d like to share a few reflections on what I’ve appreciated most over the past decade and offer tips for fellow business owners as they prepare for a new year.
1. The Power of People
What I appreciate: Our team is the heart of Numbercrunch. Their dedication, adaptability, and shared commitment to excellence have been the foundation of our success. Our clients, too, have been incredible partners. Working with ambitious founders and entrepreneurs has made it an inspiring journey.
Tip for Business Owners: Take time to nurture your relationships—with your team, clients, and even your network. Employee engagement and client loyalty can be your greatest competitive advantages. Show genuine appreciation and create environments where people feel valued and heard.
2. Resilience Through Change
What I Appreciate: The last 10 years have brought their share of challenges—from economic uncertainty to shifts in technology and client needs. Each challenge has been an opportunity to innovate, adapt, and grow stronger.
Tip for Business Owners: Build resilience into your business strategy. Embrace change as a constant and keep an eye on emerging trends in your industry. Equip your team to pivot quickly when necessary, and don’t be afraid to take calculated risks.
3. The Importance of Financial Clarity
What I Appreciate: From day one, we’ve helped businesses understand their numbers. Seeing the impact of financial clarity on business success has been deeply rewarding. It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about the confidence and direction they provide.
Tip for Business Owners: As you plan for 2025, ensure your financial house is in order. Understand your cash flow, forecast for the unexpected, and align your budget with your goals. Remember, good financial management isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
4. The Power of Gratitude
What I Appreciate: Gratitude has been my compass throughout this journey. It reminds me of the ‘why’ behind my work and motivates me to push forward. Celebrating the small wins and recognizing the contributions of others has kept our momentum alive.
Tip for Business Owners: Build gratitude into your leadership style. Recognize your team’s efforts, celebrate milestones, and never lose sight of how far you’ve come. A grateful mindset creates a positive, motivated workplace culture.
5. The Value of a Trusted Business Partner
What I Appreciate: Starting and running Numbercrunch with my business partner, Craig Hung, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey. Having someone I trust, who shares my vision, and whose skills complement my own has made all the difference. Craig’s expertise, support, and ability to navigate challenges alongside me have been invaluable.
Tip for Business Owners: If you’re considering going into business, choose a partner wisely. Trust, shared values, and complementary skills are critical to a successful partnership. A strong business partner not only helps you weather the storms but also amplifies your success. Collaboration and mutual respect will take your business further than you can go alone.
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead for Numbercrunch and the businesses we serve. The entrepreneurial spirit in Ottawa is alive and well, and I feel privileged to be part of this thriving ecosystem.
To all the business owners out there, I encourage you to step into 2025 with optimism, clarity, and a deep appreciation for the people and moments that make your work meaningful. Cheers to another year of growth, innovation, and resilience—and to the milestones we’ll all achieve together.
Happy New Year!
Susan Richards
CEO and Co-Founder, Numbercrunch
