New Thing #285--The End Of An Era

I've been affiliated with my tutoring center for four years, first as an employee and then on my own. Recently there have been several signs that perhaps it was time to move on professionally. Today I made the decision to close my business.

It was a big decision. I truly enjoy what I'm doing, and I think I'm good at it. However, at this point I only have a few students, and they're getting close to finishing the requirements for a high school diploma. Although there are a few who left temporarily and may be returning, I decided it would be a better to help them independently rather than continue things as they are now.

After a few days of mulling over my options, I drafted a letter and asked a couple of trusted people to read it. I incorporated their suggestions into a final draft, but didn't print it. Yesterday I made my decision, but I slept on it one more night to be absolutely sure.

Once I was satisfied with my decision I wanted to let several people know personally, rather than by mail. I made a list of people to call and started dialing. I talked to a couple, and left voice mails at the other numbers with a generic "please call me" message. Once the first call was made, there was no turning back! After I went through the list of phone numbers, I printed copies of the letter and put them in envelopes, addressed and stamped the envelopes, and put them in the mailbox.

Although my decision is made, I can't just end things and walk away. An end of the year closing date seemed logical, but it may stretch into the new year before things are all wrapped up. After that I'll have to figure out what I want to do!