Chapter 1: A New Beginning

I must admit, I’m still on my way to becoming an authority on this matter. Yet, I feel compelled to share the deep reflections I’ve gathered over the past year. This series of articles aims to provide raw insights into my entrepreneurial journey, highlighting my past experiences, achievements, and future aspirations. Together, we’ll delve into the authentic truths of my life and ambitions.

Nine years ago, I made a significant decision: I left my last job as an employee. At 32, I bravely stepped into full-time entrepreneurship, launching Tier Level, LLC — a digital marketing agency specifically designed for the Disaster Restoration Industry.

This transition was anything but easy. Simultaneously, I was coping with a tough divorce, raising a 4-year-old daughter, and worrying about how to pay the mortgage on my newly built home. It was a chaotic time.

As I set up my office in a spare room of my new yet empty house, I embarked on the journey of building my business. To my surprise, I quickly landed a few clients, allowing me to replace my former income. This marked the beginning of my entrepreneurial adventure, characterized by both challenges and resilience.

In those initial days, my zeal for the "Out Caring and Out Educating" (OCOE) philosophy was unbounded. I devoted hours to one-on-one instructional sessions with potential clients in the Restoration Industry — a practice I had embraced even before Zoom became widely used. The core of the OCOE model was to illustrate exactly how to deliver the services I provided. However, the intricacies of the work often left them amazed. Soon, they would ask, "What’s your fee for handling this?"

Driven by a steadfast passion and the principles of OCOE, my company flourished, skyrocketing annual revenue to over $1 million, with a team of around 10 dedicated individuals. In the subsequent years, we experienced another impressive leap, nearly doubling both our revenue and team size to almost 20 members.

But our progress didn’t halt there. We broadened our scope, diversifying our offerings to include Apparel Decorating through Printed Theory and consulting services under Tier Level Elite. These strategic expansions were pivotal moments in our evolving business.

As growth naturally unfolds, it brings about a series of transformations. The responsibilities of managing a million-dollar enterprise can lead to profound changes, especially in light of the knowledge and insights I have gained along the way.

For me, this journey has been about not just the process of building something from scratch but also about creating a capable team to execute and amplify that vision. Yet, it can be incredibly challenging to delegate that vision and trust that it will be realized with the same enthusiasm and precision as I initially envisioned. This is a difficult lesson for many founders — learning to let go.

Over the years, I noticed a gradual decline in my passion. Life’s challenges, such as the unforeseen loss of an important relationship and the death of a parent, dimmed my sense of purpose. I found myself stagnating, drifting away from the deep fulfillment that once inspired me to positively influence the world.

It's a complex feeling to articulate, but in some ways, it felt like a kind of stagnation akin to depression — not in the sense of wishing to escape, but rather a relentless feeling of being stuck.

In December of last year, I made the significant decision to step down as CEO while retaining ownership, handing the leadership to a new CEO and executive team. This transition was not without its hurdles, but we approached them systematically, one at a time.

Fortunately, I’ve built an outstanding team, and the ongoing process involves gradually distancing myself, allowing them to operate independently. (Though at times, this transition can feel somewhat isolating.)

But what comes next for me? How do I reignite my passion?

Recently, I had a significant realization. After nurturing several successful businesses, I’ve concluded that it’s time to return to my roots.

Where is “home,” you may wonder?

Florida, the place where I was born and raised. After much contemplation and discussions with my family, we have decided to move back in 2024.

What truly excites me is the idea of starting a business right here in the Sunshine State. While I have a couple of intriguing ideas simmering, I can hardly wait to embark on a new entrepreneurial venture in Florida. Importantly, I will still oversee my real estate holdings and existing businesses in Oklahoma, thanks to the capable team I’ve entrusted with driving our mission forward.

Recently, I initiated a new project called "Shirts For Funds," aimed at supporting organizations through apparel sales. This endeavor, characterized by low overhead and a deliberate launch approach, has been immensely rewarding for me. I am eagerly looking forward to its expansion, and without a doubt, "Shirts For Funds" will accompany me on my move to Florida.

As I reflect on the journey I’ve shared, it’s clear that I am in the midst of rediscovering my passion. While I haven’t fully reached my destination, I’m steadily moving in that direction as I write these words.

Allow me to distill this journey into four key realizations:

1. Letting Go: I’m learning that by releasing control, my focus sharpens on what truly brings me joy.
2. Rekindling Dreams: In the hustle of work and business expansion, I’m rediscovering the lost art of dreaming.
3. Embracing Learning: I’m reigniting my passion for knowledge through avid reading, writing, and a strong desire to learn new things.
4. Rediscovering Home: The long-awaited return to Florida represents a significant step toward finding where I truly belong.

Additionally, I am committed to being fully present for my daughter, creating cherished memories together. I’ve also intensified my focus on health and wellness, realizing the importance of self-care.

While my journey of self-discovery continues, I’m thrilled to share more of these candid thoughts from this vulnerable state — an endeavor I have not undertaken before.

I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to read and allowing me to share this journey, unburdening what I have held inside for so long. My hope is that it resonates and positively impacts your own path.

Thank you for reading.

Sean Michael Lewis

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Chapter 2: Insights from My Journey

In this video titled "What To Do When You Fall Out Of Love With Your Business," I share strategies for coping with the feelings of disconnection that can arise in the entrepreneurial journey.

Chapter 3: Love and Relationships

In this insightful video, "LOVE EXPERT ON: When A Man TRULY LOVES You, He Will DO THIS! | Stephan Speaks & Jay Shetty," the discussion revolves around recognizing true love and support in relationships, which can also parallel the support we seek in our professional lives.