We all know about the frustrations of running a woodworking business. Dealing with demanding customers, trying to outmaneuver unreliable supply chains, finding good people to do the work, emergency machine repairs always at the worst time, and the list goes on.

But why do you keep doing it?

For some, it’s going back to the reasons they started woodworking in the first place. The thrill of making something from raw wood and handing a spectacular finished piece to an appreciative customer.

For others, it’s the problem-solving challenge. How can I build this piece to fit in that space and match the environment? How can I meet the customer’s needs? How can I get it done profitably in the time allotted to do it?

We also can’t ignore the fact that the excitement for many successful woodworkers comes from building a business and making money. Yes, there are plenty of jokes about starving artists and woodworkers waiting to win the lottery, but I’ve talked to plenty whose eyes light up when they initiate a new lean manufacturing effort or land a new big client.

Still, lots of woodworkers started their business by accident. They love the smell, feel, and look of wood and started making things for the joy of it. Pretty soon, people asked to buy those things, and the woodworker was in business without trying. Of course, success came a little later when they began to love the business as much as the wood.

I recently had a neighbor come to me. He knows I have a full shop and a CNC router, and he needed a project done that he wondered if it wouldn’t be easier done on my CNC. He was right. 

It was something that would have taken him hours to cut out of plywood with a jigsaw. I could do it in minutes on the CNC with better results. It was really easy to do, but I confess I got an unreasonable amount of pleasure seeing it come out as planned on the machine. My neighbor was also pleased and sent me some more work along the same lines from other people. Cashing their checks felt good, too.

For some it’s the joy of learning. Every custom project is like going back to school, figuring it out, and making it happen. Learning also relates to teaching, and some woodworkers get a special joy out of sharing skills, bringing a new unskilled employee up to speed, or taking time out to pass on traditional skills to hobbyists. Some of that applies to the business owners who love to network with peers and trade advice.

What excites you in woodworking? If you have a rough day, what brings you back to try again tomorrow? For all the frustrations we face, let’s not lose sight of what generated our original enthusiasm. Maybe it’s time to get out of the office and go back to the shop, even if it’s just for a small personal project. Rediscover your joy.