Chapter 1: The Costly Mistake

I made a significant error that will have lasting repercussions. It all began before the pandemic, before my divorce, and before I discovered that my then-husband was involved in embezzling substantial sums from my business. In my attempts to be both a supportive wife and an effective boss, I ended up making a decision that would cost me over a million dollars.

At the time, my husband was unmotivated and job-hopping, not earning much. Eventually, he found a stable job that paid well, bringing in a six-figure income. This was a relief, as it lifted the financial burden off my shoulders for the first time in over a decade. I was delighted to see him engaged in work again, as it had been a long time since he showed any passion.

Lucy, my operations manager, was hired to help run the bakery after I suffered from debilitating migraines that hindered my ability to perform physical tasks. Although I was actively involved in strategic discussions, I entrusted her with the daily operations and even the salary I had previously taken home. Unfortunately, I was unaware that she would eventually steal over $50,000, manipulate sensitive information, and mistreat employees in my absence. It took me two years to understand the full extent of my misjudgment.

Lucy came from a wealthy background yet pretended to be dedicated to her work. She expressed a desire to expand the business and frequently insisted that I needed her. I was relieved to have someone so eager, especially since I had lost my own enthusiasm for the bakery. Despite my reservations, I was trapped by financial obligations, which made me feel compelled to continue.

My husband began to express frustration at work, leading him to suggest I open another location. The idea of him not needing to work anymore was enticing, and I foolishly bought into it.

In February 2019, I discovered a beautiful building that seemed perfect for a new bakery location. The leasing agent promptly set up a walkthrough, and after a quick call to my banker, I secured a loan preapproval. It felt like fate.

After negotiating a 10-year lease and starting renovations, we opened our new bakery in the fall of 2019. However, shortly after, my husband lost his job, and instead of supporting him, I selfishly thought about proving my independence.

Then the pandemic struck, forcing me to lay off employees and change everything I knew about running my business. My personal life deteriorated as I went through a divorce, sold my home, and struggled to find stable housing. Financially, I was in dire straits, and when I discovered discrepancies in the bakery's finances, Lucy abruptly resigned.

Chapter 2: The Aftermath

The second video, "I Finally Made $1 Million, It Was a Mistake," shares personal experiences that resonate with my own journey, highlighting the importance of authenticity in business decisions.