Well, another year over and a new one has begun...  2013 was a very bad year for me and Gourmet Conspiracy especially since I have not put much effort in the business.  I had been torn between my engineering job and my catering business; and the job won.  Late nights at work completing projects, making sure that we're on schedule and on budget, and feeling exhausted and completely drained when I get home.  The stress of the work and my responsibility as an Engineering Manager has started taking its toll.  I have been experiencing bouts of depression and feeling sharp pin-like sensations throughout my body during the night.  I am losing touch with my life goals and I don't like it.  Until now, I have had one foot in and one foot out.

This year, I have placed myself on a journey of rediscovery and onto a path of pursuing my passion.  This came about as I was reading Howard Cannon's "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Starting a Restaurant".  The first couple of chapters deals with just that - addressing what my true motivation is for venturing into the culinary business side of the world.  I have been a complete idiot for not reading this much sooner.

My first and foremost inclination and purpose for this sort of decision is the ability to be of service to people; and to share my love for cooking and entertaining.  I consider my passion as that similar to artists and musicians who are purely motivated with sharing their craft with the world.  It is, after all, known as 'culinary arts' and I am now daring to step up on stage.  It is a real joy seeing the smiles and lustful expressions of those who truly appreciate my creations.  This has always been my drive.

Secondly, I am excited about the idea of having our own business and the opportunity to be able to provide for my wife and I on our own terms.  I don't have all the answers right now but in my internal being, I already envision the outcome of spending the time that I would otherwise devote to a job towards what I love to do.  Working hard was never the problem - I would just rather be working towards my own dreams and goals.

Thirdly, I would like to leave this world being remembered for having accomplished my dream rather than "someone who tried..."  What better way to be remembered than be able to do what I love to do.  Everyone has to eat, and I love satisfying that need.

This being said, my New Year's Resolution this year is to develop a 2 year exiting plan from engineering and establish the foundations for a new life in the culinary industry.  Will I succeed?!  God only knows - but I will surely hang on for dear life!  If it doesn't kill me, it will only make me better!

Happy New Year to all of us!