Company 42...In the beginning
Where did that name come from?
Short version -
It was not an engine from a fire house. And, no, this isn't the 42nd business venture. I started a Company and needed a name. I could not give it the same name as on my birth certificate without creating a lot of confusion. I could not give it my ss number as that would not be an intelligent thing to do. Many of you know I played basketball as a youngster and during college. My number was 42. It is just that simple.
The long version -
I've always liked the number 42. When I wore the number 42 on my jersey, I was always very proud. Really, I was proud of all the work that went into being able to wear the jersey in the first place. I was taught to play basketball by a great coach. She was a coach that arrived to championships early in her career and was a true motivator and leader. She championed excellence. She demanded our utmost attention to the details - on the court and off of the court. We learned how to set and reach goals. We rarely were defeated and that fed our pride and determination.
Wearing that 42 on my practice clothes, game jerseys and scratched on every notebook I owned was an early form of branding. I didn't understand that at the time. 42 just felt good. It was a part of something greater that meant a lot to all stakeholders. There were many parents, teachers, coaches and siblings who shared the spirit of what our team represented. In whole, we were aware of our presence within the community. We were taught early lessons in professionalism and accountability. On game days, we wore hand sewn clothes that our coaches' mother carefully created - for all of us. We were sharp, young professionals in the hallways of our school as well as in the hallways of the schools we visited.
Within the last 20 years, I have approached the work that I do in the same fashion as I had learned while playing basketball. Learn the fundamentals; connect/understand/share with people; have fun and give more than expected have been the apparent core values. This is what 42 represents. It seems like a sensible business name to me. And, it is likely one that won't be forgotten.
I hope we get a chance to meet sometime. If we don't, I hope you find your own "42" and elevate your life.
Shelley :-)
