There are so many lessons that I’ve learned about what really matters and what to focus on when growing a company but I’ve realized that for me, above everything else, it’s having my wife by my side. Starting and growing a company is like riding a roller coaster with many ups and downs. It’s been really important for me to have my now wife (as I recently got married), to be there with me during the hard times to help pick me up and also there with me to celebrate the good times.

Here are a few practical reasons that being in a relationship with someone you really care about can help you grow your company.

• Focus – let’s face it, when you’re single there are more temptations. You end up going out more and drinking/parting more which can be a big distraction. I’m not saying that an entrepreneur should not have fun but there is a difference between having a good time and letting the good times have you.

• Drive – when you have to provide for others such as your spouse, it creates a tremendous spark under you to be successful because you know that others are counting on you for their future. This is a big responsibility and one that can’t be taken lightly. I will do anything to protect my family and now that means doing anything and everything I can to grow my company because that is how I will fulfill the hopes and dreams that my wife and I have for growing our own family.

• Purpose – I believe that doing something of meaning that is beyond yourself, gives you a sense of purpose. This may be what your company stands for in terms of your mission and vision. But beyond the company, I believe there is no greater feeling than knowing that the work that you are doing gives you the ability to make someone you care for happy. In return, they will give you the confidence that you need to carry through the inevitable hard times that comes with starting a company.

Without a doubt, I’m in the camp of having a strong teammate on your side that knows how much you care about your work. It’s important to establish the expectations that your work is a major part of your life and will require sacrifices in terms of your time and money. If you find someone willing to take that journey with you, I believe that the best thing you can do is everything in your power to take care of them and make them happy.