What inspired you to start a business?
I worked in quite a few different jobs and whilst working under someone was great experience, It really helped me realise that I wanted to be in charge of my own destiny and have my own business. I felt stunted working for someone else and by seeing them in charge and they way they treated people, It became clear that I could do it better!
What is the greatest challenge and the greatest reward in being your own boss?
The greatest challenge is coping with stressful times and being able to switch off. In business things are always changing, and you need to keep up with the changes and not get left behind, but of course throughout this, the responsibility lies with you alone, so it can be tricky to not spend time permanently on the phone and having sleepless nights. The greatest rewards are when things are going well, you know it is your own hard work that has created the situation of where you are, and you are able to treat yourself and reward yourself which makes it all worth while!
What motivational tips can you give to our members about goal setting and managing both successes and failures?
If you set goals it gives you a clear indication of what you are expecting from yourself and a great barometer to see timelines on how things are going. It is important to learn, I don’t think there are failures, just lessons to learn from. Never think success is forever as you will meet other challenges, this is inevitable.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a business owner?
Time management. This is a tough one, but as a mother and business owner, you need to be able to work this out as it is essential to a successful business.
How have you benefited from mentoring or coaching?
I have read lots of books. When I go on holiday, I always read a motivational or coaching type of publication. It helps you see how other business people have dealt with different situations and gives you a great insight and can also help with problems in your day to day business life. I also saw Anthony Robbins and came away from that feeling I could do anything! Soon afterwards, I did the biggest property deal in my life, and It certainly was down to my mindset after seeing him.
What advice can you give about the benefits of networking?
Contacts are very important, you need to build up trust with people which takes time. There are many benefits from networking with people to build this side of the business but be selective of what you attend or who you are networking with as there are a lot of time wasters out there!
What does the future hold for you?
I have recently been asked to design the interior of a private aircraft, and I feel this is an area I can really excel in as there are limited designers creating this kind of work. I am about to open up a more creative side by designing a really different type of aircraft interior. I am also mentoring kids, but also have a new mentoring business where I discuss all types of personal and business goals with clients and this is growing fast. I have a home range coming out soon too , so a busy future and a positive one!