10 years ago in trepidation, on the 13th floor in my work office, I packed up my box to leave city working life to embark on the world of business and birth Potential U.
Here are a few lessons I’ve learnt along the way:

1. Network network network! The road to your own business can be very lonely. I remember in my 2nd week of business, I secured my first radio interview and none of my family or friends listened; I was distraught. With all my friends in 9-5 jobs, I realised I needed to be proactive, so I made a conscious effort to network with women who also ran businesses. I’ve made many business associates and some great friends along the way.

2. Be current. When I started out in business 10 years ago, Pinterest and Instagram didn’t exist. Technology and social media has evolved so much; it’s important to stay one step ahead of the game! I sought the advice of my mentee (who is a social media influencer), to update my social media skills. Stay current, be adaptable and keep on learning!

3. Passion pays! I am just as passionate about my business today as I was when I first started 10 years ago. I thoroughly enjoying helping my clients feel confident in their skin. Find your passion and make it work! Life is too precious to stay in mundane unfulfilling jobs. One of the most poignant words I heard at a business event was: ‘Have one foot in your dreams and one in reality’. I hope your dreams come true!

4. Be authentic. We are best at being ourselves, so be you. People buy people, so connect from your heart, but use your head too . Remember your valves and don’t lose them in this microwave world. I hold my values and beliefs very dear. I have managed to remain true to them despite numerous temptations and the fluid demands of the fashion/business world…..

5. Tenacity and perseverance! I’ve learnt that the road of business isn’t always smooth, it’s dotted with many highs and lows. As I have navigated this road, I’ve learnt to enjoy the highs, stand during the lows; knowing that they don’t last long. Business is indicative of life, so you need perseverance and copious amounts of tenacity.

6. Rest and relaxation! Coming from a 13year city career as an accountant, these words were foreign to me. I worked crazy hours in the city and continued like this when I started my business. I was determined to work hard and make it work. I remember going to my good friend’s wedding in the Caribbean in my first year of business, where I spent most of my time on the beach with my mobile checking my business emails and not enjoying the holiday at all. After running myself down and suffering from exhaustion, I have learnt to rest, use my out of office and work smarter. Now when I go on holiday, my mobile is the hotel safe, while I top up my vitamin D on the beach 

7. Ask for help and support. Still trying to master this one. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength and realising you can’t do it alone. Your friends, family, network of associates make up a village that help to nurture and grow your business.

8. Know your strengths and weaknesses. When you start out in business (irrespective of the industry) you will be everything: The accountant, salesperson, administrator, marketing and PR, etc. As you grow in business, learn your strengths and weaknesses, and delegate other roles to the experts. The perfectionist in me is still learning to let go 🙂

9. Serve your customers. Treat them with care, listen to their feedback, nurture your relationship with them and ultimately; serve them. Stats say that its easier to gain repeat business from your current clients, than to attract new clients. I never close off a job until I’ve heard my client’s feedback. It enables me to grow and make any necessary changes.

10. Be thankful! It’s a privilege to do a job I love and for 10 years. I’ve seen many people start in business who aren’t here today. I have met and styled thousands of clients over the years. I am invited into their homes to manage/detox their wardrobes (which is pretty intimate if you ask me). They trust me to take them shopping and to revamp their image. I am sought to deliver corporate presentations and style masterclasses. My advice is called upon by the media and fashion houses. If we look around us, there are many reasons to be thankful and I am exceedingly grateful for 10 years in business. Thank you!