It is the lessons that these challenges provide which set you up for future success. These learning opportunities can be even further enriched by consulting entrepreneurs who have overcome similar hurdles.
Reflecting on their experiences across a breadth of sectors; seven influential female founders have drawn on their successful careers and shared their key tips for those keen to start their own business.
Although talent is key in any field, to achieve success in business takes determination and perseverance. Success will not come instantly, and you must be prepared to work to the limits of your ability. Many talented individuals may be tempted to coast on their natural abilities, however in business, this will only get you so far.
Jemima Myers, founder of digital marketing agency Social Chameleon shares her comments on the importance of work ethic, stating:
‘‘I strongly believe that raw talent is not enough, and a strong work ethic is the key to success. If you are naturally capable, but you’re not willing to work hard, you will not achieve the best results.’’
She expands, ‘’being a business owner, and seeing the journeys of many entrepreneurs throughout the years, I can confidently say that it is rarely those with the most talent who get the furthest. Those who work incredibly hard to achieve what they want, and are committed to overcoming any obstacle, they go the furthest. Staunch work ethic is a necessity in an increasingly competitive business landscape.’’
There are lots of reasons behind starting a business; perhaps we have the right skillset, connections, or perhaps we have the right academic qualifications. Being good at something, or being qualified, is not always enough to build a successful enterprise. Loving what you do, or having strong beliefs about whatever you are working towards, is at the heart of most successful business ventures.
Josephine Liang, sustainability expert and CEO of Caulibox, shares her beliefs on the importance of passion being at the heart of success,
‘‘You have to truly love and believe in what you’re doing, otherwise you’re going to get tired and frustrated with the slow grind very quickly I think we idolise the glamour of entrepreneurs on magazines, working in WeWorks sipping free beers, but the reality is filled with is a lot of disappointment, rejections, and hard work.’’ She continues:
‘‘A lot of the work, especially at the beginning, is the most unglamorous work because you have to do whatever it takes to inch towards success; you’re the janitor, and also the accountant, you’re the office manager, and also a strategist. You have to keep on fuelling that passion, remembering why you’re doing this and why you have to do this.’’
Entrepreneurs are, of course, usually trying to fill a gap that they have found in the market, and invest time and money into building a product or business that can do this. However, the success of a business is also hinged on the potential clients tendency to spend money on this particular gap. Through assessing this carefully, entrepreneurs can save time and money.
Anna Stella, CEO of global outsourced agency BBSA, shares her expertise on this topic, advising that ‘‘having a great idea is not enough — you need your business to solve an existing problem that enough clients experience and are willing to pay for you to solve.”: She expands: ‘‘the centrepiece of your market research should revolve around understanding the width and breadth of your client’s problem before you start investing in solution development.’’
Starting a business requires you to really examine yourself and your actions in a way that is not always necessary in our personal lives. It is important to be open to admitting when you are wrong, learning from those around you, and developing and adapting over time.
‘’A high level of self awareness is required to lead a successful business’’ asserts Janthana Kaenprakhamroy, CEO of Tapoly, ‘‘there’s no room for your ego, instead you need to learn from the people around you, and have the ability to self-reflect.’’
Improving and succeeding often requires us to abandon our egos and admit where our limitations lie, and find a team whose’ skills complement our own.
Starting a business venture can be incredibly stressful, and so it is important to protect your emotional wellbeing, and the wellbeing of others in your organisation. It can be easy to neglect our mental health when working towards a goal. Although we are aware that we should look after ourselves, it can be challenging to put this into practice. Lesley Cooper, wellbeing consultant and CEO of WorkingWell, advises entrepreneurs that:
‘’When under pressure, it is important to be gentle with yourself. It is normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes, or doubt our professional abilities, but it is important not to be overly critical of ourselves.’’
She suggests that when you find your internal dialogue speaking in a critical voice, you should ‘‘try to take a step back and think, would I talk to a friend or colleague like this? This will help you show yourself the kindness and understanding that you would show others.’’
Entrepreneurial life requires resilience, energy, immunity, and health outcomes so that we can thrive in adverse conditions. So, ensuring you are looking after yourself physically and mentally is essential. However, what works for one person does not work for another and requires a personalised precision approach. Diet choices will be personal to each individual and will be affected by lifestyle, health, culture and priorities including around work.
Founder of UniSkin Tania Malan says ‘’‘the key to resilience is knowing what you need specifically for you in the form of nutrition, supplements, exercise and lifestyle. Because one size does not fit all. Keeping your body fit and healthy is important to maintain productivity and efficiency when starting a business.’’
Tania argues we need to make sure our bodies have the correct optimal balance to work at our best abilities. “When there is a lack of any of the nutritional elements the body cannot complete the process, resulting in delayed repair, reduced energy production or the accumulation of free radicals, leading to DNA damage and potentially other diseases,” she says.
Measuring our daily performance and adapting our behaviours are key to longevity, extending health span and mental resilience in such a competitive environment such as an entrepreneur. We work so hard we owe it to ourselves and our families.
When we are feeling under pressure, it is not surprising we can lose some of our positivity. However, trying to keep morale high, not just for yourself but for others within your business, is key to creating a productive and supportive culture. It breeds enthusiasm and uplifts employees.
Jeanette Sklivanou, author of “Nailed It!” and founder of Safe N’ Beautiful emphasises the importance of working together to keep morale high in yourself and in others:
‘‘Not every day will be a good day. But one big factor that helps boost my own morale is being surrounded by a team of positive people.’’
Speaking from her experience as a business founder and president, she comments ‘‘my staff can sense when I am having an off day, and they gather around to make me smile or make a cup of tea to buoy my mood.’’
You can implement this by giving employees regular recognition for their efforts and successes. Celebrating mini wins regularly boosts confidence and creates a positive mood in the workplace.
July
10jul17:3023:00Rising Star Awards Ceremony 2025
10/07/2025 17:30 - 23:00(GMT+00:00)
The Londoner Hotel
38 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7DX
Now in their eleventh year, the Rising Star Awards continue
Now in their eleventh year, the Rising Star Awards continue to be the first to spotlight the achievements of women below the Senior Management or Director level – showcasing the female talent pipeline and the next generation of future leaders.
The awards also recognise the efforts of senior leaders who champion gender equality and put the spotlight on a “company of the year” that actively supports its female talent pipeline above and beyond industry norms.
The team at WeAreTheCity are excited to announce that we will be holding our Rising Star awards celebration for all winners, sponsors and judges on the evening of 10 July at The Londoner, Leicester Square.
Over the course of the evening we will be networking and celebrating the achievements of all of our 2025 winners, whilst enjoying the very best in entertainment from our live singers and strictly stars. An evening not to be missed!
For more information visit: wearethecity-risingstars.com
26julAll DayTessy's Brunches Presents: Engage HER
26/07/2025 All Day(GMT+00:00)
Stanley Stephenson Lounge
Crystal Palace Football Club, Holmesdale Road, London, SE25 6PU
Engage Her – July 26, 2025 Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive
Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community of women. Through interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and engaging discussions, attendees will have the chance to share experiences, learn from one another, and grow together. This event aims to create a welcoming environment where women can support each other in their personal and professional journeys.
Highlights:
• Engaging workshops and interactive sessions encouraging active participation.
• Networking opportunities to expand personal and professional connections.
• Panel discussions with industry leaders sharing insights and experiences.
• Community-building activities to foster lasting relationships.
Mark your calendars for Engage Her on July 26, 2025, a vibrant event designed to connect and inspire women. Participate in interactive workshops, network with like-minded individuals, and join discussions with industry leaders. Build meaningful relationships and grow within a supportive community. Engage Her is your opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive together. Don’t miss out—register now!
Indulge in a sumptuous spread of delicious treats crafted to tantalize your taste buds.
Tickets are available for £50 and the event is open to all women. Let’s come together and support each other as we navigate the challenges of life. We can’t wait to see you there!
Tessy’s Brunches (www.tessysbrunches) is dedicated to creating a platform where unseen women become visible through networking and mentoring opportunities. Our mission is not only about recognising women but understanding and addressing their unique challenges.
Our aims are rooted in three core principles: Empower, Engage, and Elevate. We seek to empower women by inspiring personal growth and self-discovery. We aim to engage by fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community. Finally, we strive to elevate by enhancing professional development and personal fulfilment. Through these pillars, we are dedicated to helping women overcome barriers, realize their potential, and achieve both personal and professional success.
#TessysBrunches #WomenPower #CelebrateWomen #InspiringChange #EmpowerHER #EngageHER #ElevateHER