Who’s the boss?

When work feels like play, it’s sometimes hard to remember there’s a serious side to it

James McKee opened Favorit Cycles in Cranbrook, B.C. in 2007. — Marie Milner photo

James McKee, owner of Favorit Cycles in Cranbrook, B.C., is originally from Fort McMurray, Alberta. He lived in Edmonton for some years, but got tired of big-city living and in 2006 opted to move to Cranbrook, where his parents reside. He opened his bike shop the following year.

We asked McKee a few questions, to learn more about the personality behind Favorit Cycles.

Is there a downside to working at a job that you love?

Actually, there’s a fine balance that you have to maintain when your job is also your passion. It doesn’t really feel like work—I get to play with bikes all day—and sometimes I need to remind myself that this is a business, and I’m the one responsible for it. Sometimes it gets a little crazy but most of the time it’s quite pleasing.

Is there something outside of work that you’re passionate about?

I have two little girls who are pretty rad—one that’s one month old and one that’s almost four years.

What is something about yourself that might surprise people who know you?

I like reading—is that surprising? I like books by Wilbur Smith—fictional history set in South Africa. I prefer stuff that’s set in older times, with no brand names or product placement. Reading stories set 200 years ago, you don’t hear anything about computers or marketing or technology—no terms like Apple or PC or iPhone—and it’s a refreshing break.

Can you offer a word of advice to those just starting their businesses?

It’s tough to pick just one thing, but I’d say be smart—listen to people who have done it already, and be willing to learn from them. You can save yourself time and financial hardship and frustration. Business—even small business—has rules that you have to follow in order to make money, and in the end that’s what business is for.