As I sit here reflecting on the past year, I am amazed by the journey that has led me to where I am today: the founder and CEO of Four Score Solutions; my brain-child, tech consulting firm that I built from the ground up. Although I’d been “running” Four Score on the side since 2019, this journey truly began in April 2023 when I ditched the safety of my W2 and became fully independent. As with so many life changing decisions, this launch occurred during a moment that was both ordinary and extraordinary—a car ride home from brunch with my very pregnant wife.
As my wife was driving, her belly round with our soon-to-be-born son, I decided to share the news that would change our lives. “I’m leaving my job,” I said, watching her jaw drop from the safety of my passenger seat. “I’m going to fully launch Four Score, I want to leave my 9-5 and be a solo practice.” I don’t know what made that moment “the moment”, maybe I’d hoped she would be a little extra happy after brunch, but there we were. I’d finally put into words what I’d been considering for months.
She was understandably shocked and concerned. We had meticulously planned for her to leave her full-time position as a registered nurse, the job that provided our health insurance (not to mention a healthy income stream), to become a stay-at-home mom. None of these plans included my launch into entrepreneurship. The thought of me leaving my stable 9-5 job and its guaranteed benefits seemed like a reckless gamble…especially with a baby on the way in less than 3 months.
But I had a plan, which I carefully explained to my very hesitant wife. Although I had been running Four Score Solutions on the side for years and I had a good grasp on the business legalities, I didn’t have many private clients running as a few had moved under the umbrella of my employer. My strategy and success pended on my ability to negotiate a contract with my former employer which would allow me to continue working for them in a similar role, but as a contractor. The days of W2 security would be over and we would be exploring the world of C 2 C transactions while I built up my client base.
The transition was anything but smooth. The stress and fear of the unknown were immense. I had to navigate the complexities of contract negotiations, re-establish a business structure on a larger scale, hire a full-time employee, secure and outline benefits for employees and secure health insurance—all while preparing for the arrival of our son. It was a trial by fire, but one that taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, determination, and the importance of a solid support system.
Two months later, in June 2023, Four Score Solutions officially launched. I successfully secured the contract with my former employer, which provided the stability I needed to take the next steps. My first employee officially started with us in November, with full benefits outlined in our first ever Four Score Solutions Employee Handbook. The sense of accomplishment was profound, but the challenges were far from over.
Balancing the demands of a fledgling business with the responsibilities of becoming a first-time father was a juggling act like no other. Our household transitioned from a dual-income, no-children dynamic to a single-income, one-child, no-sleep reality. The financial pressures were significant, especially with the added expense of providing full benefits for myself, my family and my employees. The security of a steady paycheck was gone, replaced by the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurial income.
Despite these challenges, the rewards have been immense. Over the past year, Four Score Solutions has grown to include five employees. I have the autonomy to select clients and set my schedule, which has allowed me to be present for my son’s first milestones. Watching him grow from a helpless newborn into a curious and lively 10-month-old has been a joy beyond words. From his first smile to his first foods, being there for these precious moments has made every sacrifice worthwhile. The sense of accomplishment and fulfillment from building something of my own while witnessing my family’s growth is unparalleled.
Launching a business and becoming a father in such a short time frame was not easy. One year in, and it still isn’t easy or comfortable. Launching required a leap of faith, countless sleepless nights, and unwavering determination like I’d never before experienced. Despite the challenges, it has easily been the most rewarding experience of my professional life. To anyone considering a similar path, know that the journey will be tough, but the rewards can be beyond your wildest dreams.
Here’s to the next chapter of Four Score Solutions and to all the entrepreneurs who dare to dream big, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
