Do not wear too many hats for too long. What I mean is, don't try and do it all on your own. I understand that when we commence our businesses we are trying to do it as cheaply as possible. Whilst this works for a short period of time, I cannot stress enough how important it is to have people in your corner, in your village, who are experts at what they do and handle the parts of your business you don't need to be spending time on.

There is a lot of support out there for business owners in many different forms so don't be afraid to ask for help. Develop a network of like minded supporters around you and take opportunities to learn new skills. And be kind to yourself. Being a business owner is hard work!

A huge highlight for me is when the woman I am supporting reaches out and says how I've reduced their stress levels and they no longer feel overwhelmed. I feel a range of emotions when this happens! I'm so elated for them, I'm proud they took the step to reach out for help and proud of myself for making that difference in their life.

You don’t have to be on call 24/7 if you run your own business. Have good boundaries and make them clear, so when you are present you can work efficiently.

“A highlight for me has been helping people. Sometimes you know at the time the impact you've had, how their health has improved and they have a better quality of life, but sometimes you only hear about years later; it doesn't matter when, it is still profoundly satisfying. “

“I have learnt that you can't predict or control things, especially in business and more importantly, I have developed a newfound respect for small business owners in particular - you are all amazing! I try to not sweat the small things and am determined to make my little dream come true, staying strong with my vision, however I have my days.”

Professional business headshots are one of the essential marketing tools in your brand identity toolkit. Even if you’re not quite ready for a full personal branding photoshoot, I always recommend starting out with one or two professional headshots. Here are my top tips for what to wear for your next headshot photos.

“I pride myself on this ethos of delivering exceptional customer service, creating long-lasting relationships to help customers achieve life milestones; Whether buying a first home, refinancing to save money, or purchasing an investment property.”

“I think the biggest struggle is deciding what you really want to do and who you want to do it for. When I first started my business I produced a quote for every possible lead I had. Now I understand that not every project is suited to me, and I'm not suited to every project. I'm quite particular about the clients I work with as I've realised that's the best way to do work you can be proud of.”

“I find I can put too much pressure on myself to get too many things done in one day. When clients wanted to make changes to their projects, I felt the need to action them straight away, rather than communicating with the clients and advising that amendments may take a few days. I have learn that with the right communication and setting expectations, clients often understand and are happy to wait.”

“I am a mum of two teenage girls.... I think it’s interesting that that was the first thing that I thought to write!! I love being a mum and I'm so proud of who my girls are as individual people, but that’s just it, they are individuals. I had to really think about who I am as an individual. I am a creative and love all things beauty. Being creative seems to flow into all aspects of my life.”

“Family is the heart behind my business. I do what I do to support my family as well as to provide my family and others, a place to come together and reconnect. We lost a few close family members which sparked the idea to create a place where we could be together, to create memories. Life goes by too fast and we miss so many precious moments.”

“I have so many highlights! I just enjoy seeing my clients happy with their treatments and products that are recommended. I'm very happy to be able to employee local young women and train them well in an industry that is amazing. Most of all, I get to meet and talk to the most amazing inspirational woman from all walks of life every day.”

“Every year brings new challenges, whether that’s from external pressures such as floods, fires; or internal pressures such as recruitment challenges, financial issues or staff turnover. I have learnt you need to be bigger on the inside than anything happening on the outside. This makes you resilient and a problem solver. I see all problems as opportunities to pivot and improve, no matter how I feel.”