We did not want to miss our moment to say MERRY CHRISTMAS to you all.
As we hurtle towards the year’s end, I find myself caught between two competing impulses: desperately wanting an extra week to wrap up our work, and simultaneously, I can’t wait to get into the upcoming break. It seems incredible that 2024 has flown by so quickly.
A big year for Europa Creative Partners
This year has been economically challenging for most parts of the world, especially in Aotearoa New Zealand. In the depth of this economic malaise, I made a pivotal decision to leave my job and go full-time with Europa Creative Partners (ECP).
ECP turned nine years old a couple of weeks ago. For much of its existence, ECP was a side hustle that became the main hustle a few years back. When one of my customers offered me a job, I put the business on hiatus. Now, it was time to bring it back permanently.
Seven reasons that I believe in us
Despite my healthy fear of economic insecurity and the gloomy 2024 economy, I had faith in several key principles that convinced me this path would work:
- Proven methods: I believe in the sales and marketing methods we deliver to our clients, honed over my career as an employee and an agency owner. I’ve witnessed these strategies scale businesses quickly; now was the time to apply them to my venture. All the same, it’s been tough on the nerves at times!
- Beyond expertise: Finesse is not everything. Perseverance and hard work are crucial. Nothing grows businesses quite like wearing out some metaphorical shoe leather – or, in our case, screen time and sneaker rubber – and getting out there to talk to prospective and future customers. My accountant thinks that we’re single-handedly keeping Auckland’s coffee industry alive.
- We have a fantastic team.
- Amazing network: I am surrounded by high-quality friends, colleagues, advisors, professionals, and people who are all around smart. The care and cultivation of that network is always on my mind.
- Abundance: I always like to work in abundance. The economy might be down – but there are opportunities everywhere. NZ’s economy, all on its own, is forecast to make $289B this year. We only want a tiny slice of that.
- Love and support: I had the incredible love and support of my family, particularly my wife and son, who supported me no matter what.
- Rumblings of self-belief: Occasionally, and more frequently, I believe in myself as I get older and am happier in my skin.
So far, so good
It’s been a monumental effort, and I’m pleased to report: so far, so good. We’re blessed with great customers, fascinating work, and some of the most intellectually stimulating and challenging briefs I’ve ever encountered. To our partners, supporters, and customers, we deeply appreciate you.
Merry Christmas
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re feeling optimistic – some reasons rational, some just vibes. Either way, we can’t wait to dive in, but first, we’re looking forward to some profound relaxation and fun during the break.
Have a great holiday, a warm and happy Christmas, and a prosperous new year. I look forward to seeing you all in 2025.
PS
Pictured, ECP company mascot Koda, in front of one of two Christmas trees. We take Christmas (decoration, at least) very seriously in the Hayward household.