So I invested most of my savings into a small company.
At first, I was optimistic.
I rented workspace.
Bought equipment.
Paid for advertising.
Hired help.
And told Whitney that within a year, we’d be earning more than I’d ever made at my old job.
But business was slower than expected.
Customers were difficult to attract.
Expenses kept increasing.
Instead of admitting I’d underestimated the challenges, I borrowed money to cover the shortfall.
Then I borrowed more.
Every month, I told myself the next one would be better.
Whitney eventually noticed.
“Ross, how much debt are you carrying?”
“It’s under control.”
“Then show me the numbers.”
I became defensive.
“Why are you suddenly questioning everything I do?”
“Because you’re stressed all the time, and you won’t tell me what’s happening.”
“I said I’m handling it.”
But I wasn’t.
The business continued losing money.