Reflections on a Year of Growth: My Journey with Anderson Scottish Tours

Reflections on a Year of Growth: My Journey with Anderson Scottish Tours

As I sit down to write this, I can hardly believe it’s been a year since Anderson Scottish Tours came to life. This milestone feels like both a lifetime and a blink of an eye. Moving from employee to self-employed was a leap I knew would challenge me, but I underestimated just how transformative the experience would be.

Taking the Leap

For years, I dreamed of running my own business. Scotland, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and welcoming people, has always been my passion. I spent nearly a decade helping others explore this incredible country, working for fantastic tour companies. But as rewarding as that was, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wanted to build something of my own—something personal, shaped by my vision and values.

Starting Anderson Scottish Tours was as exhilarating as it was daunting. I traded the relative comfort of being an employee for the uncertainty of self-employment, armed with little more than a dream, a plan, and an overwhelming sense of "I hope this works."

Highs, Lows, and Lessons

The past year has been filled with highs and lows—moments of triumph that have left me smiling for days, and challenges that tested my resilience in ways I hadn’t imagined.

• The Highs:
  Seeing the smiles on my clients’ faces as they experience Scotland’s magic for the first time has been the biggest reward. Hearing their stories, laughter, and heartfelt thanks reminds me why I took this leap. One of the most surreal moments was welcoming guests from as far away as the US and Australia who had found my business online. Knowing that my vision resonates with people across the globe is humbling and inspiring.

• The Lows:
  Self-employment isn’t all scenic drives and storytelling. I’ve learned more about tax codes, marketing, and website management than I ever thought I’d need to know. There were weeks when I questioned if I’d made the right decision—especially during quieter times when bookings were slow, and I had to wear every hat in the business. But even in those moments, I grew stronger.

Lessons for the Road

If there’s one thing this year has taught me, it’s that adaptability is key. Despite my best efforts to plan every detail, not every opportunity turned out as I’d hoped. Some partnerships didn’t align, and certain ideas that seemed perfect on paper didn’t quite translate to reality. But each misstep became a chance to refine my approach, focus on what truly matters, and improve for the future.

I’ve also realised the importance of patience and persistence. Building a business doesn’t happen overnight, and success isn’t always a straight road. Some days were slower than I’d like, while others brought unexpected opportunities that reaffirmed why I started this journey.

Above all, I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected. The beauty of running your own business is that no two days are the same. Whether it’s meeting incredible clients, discovering hidden gems in Scotland, or navigating the challenges of being my own boss, every experience has been part of the adventure.

Looking Ahead

As Anderson Scottish Tours turns one, I can’t help but feel excited about what lies ahead. This past year has been about laying the foundation—refining my approach, learning from experience, and understanding what my clients value most. Now, it’s time to build on that momentum.

In 2025, I’ll be expanding my offerings to include new tours and shore excursions. These additions are designed to showcase even more of Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and hidden gems. Whether it’s exploring untouched corners of the Highlands, delving deeper into Scotland’s whisky heritage, or creating new Outlander-inspired adventures, there’s so much to look forward to.

I’m also working to ensure my website reflects the full scope of what Anderson Scottish Tours has to offer. The new tours will provide more options for travelers looking to experience Scotland in their own way, whether they’re first-time visitors or seasoned explorers seeking something unique.

Beyond the tours themselves, I’m looking to strengthen the personal connections that make this business so rewarding. Every guest brings their own story, and being part of their journey is something I never take for granted.

As I step into year two, my focus remains on delivering the best possible experience for my clients, while continuing to grow and adapt as a business owner. Scotland has so much to offer, and I can’t wait to help even more people discover its magic.

Thank You

To everyone who has supported me along the way—thank you. Your encouragement, feedback, and trust have been invaluable. If you’re dreaming of a Scottish adventure, now’s the perfect time to plan your journey.

Let’s make 2025 a year of unforgettable experiences. Get in touch today to start planning your Scottish adventure!