I was asked recently how running my own business has changed my life. I’m never a big fan of these questions! I always feel that unless I have a rags to riches type story behind me, it really doesn’t seem that impressive when you say it out loud! But, it did make me think if I, or my life, had changed in ways that I could specifically say were down to starting, running and sustaining a business for the last 14 years, and I think there are.
1. Creating Meaningful Impact
When I started back in 2010, I was just curious about what it would be like to run a business. I started as a side hustle to just “see how it went”! Little did I know, it would become so much more than a side gig.
Today, I take so much pride in supporting amazing clients with their businesses and helping them thrive. Sometimes, I forget to give myself credit for this journey, and how much of a commitment to learning and bettering my knowledge in all aspects of business I did, especially in those early days. I am definitely more ambitious. Seeing my clients succeed with my help reminds me why I started in the first place—to make a real difference to people and their businesses and lives.
2. Growing Confidence
Being a business owner has boosted my confidence in ways I never expected. It’s not about always feeling sure of every decision (which I certainly have not been – but I’ve made them anyway!), it’s about facing challenges head-on and learning from them. I have made decisions for my own business growth, and I make decisions on behalf of my clients every day, confident in the trust we have. Managing a small team, navigating uncertainties, and steering the business forward have taught me resilience. Each hurdle overcome and milestone achieved reminds me that I’m capable of more than I thought I was.
3. Balancing Flexibility with Commitment
Owning a business has given me the flexibility to travel, spend more time with family, and structure my days around what matters most. It took a long time to rewire the corporate 9-5 in me! But let’s be real—the idea of “my time is my own” is a bit of a myth! I’m deeply committed to my clients and the work I do for them. This commitment isn’t a burden at all, but a testament to long standing relationships and trust. While I cherish the freedom entrepreneurship offers, I wouldn’t trade the satisfaction of supporting my clients’ success. And I think I have found the balance.
In essence, these 14 years have been a journey of growth, both personally and professionally. I’ve learned to embrace challenges, celebrate successes, and find fulfilment in making a positive impact.
I’ve also learnt to give myself credit for what I have created.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue evolving, discovering new opportunities, and helping more entrepreneurs simplify their businesses and achieve their dreams.
It sometimes feels like I’m just getting started as this next chapter starts – watch this space!
