It was the week before Christmas 2013.
The end of a 5th consecutive year of post-banking collapse recession in Europe.
As usual, the last-minute ‘must be done’ list was expanding faster than my tasks in Wunderlist could be completed.
As a business coach of 20+ years I am used to having to go up a gear to clear the decks before the holiday season, but on this occasion the schedule presented me with some interesting challenges.
No less than three former clients had contacted me in the days leading up to the festivities, requesting an informal conversation about their individual futures.
With the help of my essential personal assistant, Phillippa Goodwin, we had managed to schedule all three conversations into the last seven days of my working year.
A late hotel supper, afternoon coffee in an airport lounge and a Sunday morning FaceTime video call from my office at home, The Bunker.
There were two reasons that these three conversations prompted me to reflect and comment.
Firstly, they all revolved around the same fundamental question:
"Should I carry on owning my own business and, if so, how can I make it a success?"
Secondly, all three were women who combined business ownership with the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood.
What happened next was the creation of this e-book, with my observations on what it takes to be a successful and happy Female Principal and some very personal stories from real clients.
If this e-book makes you feel less alone and gives you hope, my mission will be served.
The end of a 5th consecutive year of post-banking collapse recession in Europe.
As usual, the last-minute ‘must be done’ list was expanding faster than my tasks in Wunderlist could be completed.
As a business coach of 20+ years I am used to having to go up a gear to clear the decks before the holiday season, but on this occasion the schedule presented me with some interesting challenges.
No less than three former clients had contacted me in the days leading up to the festivities, requesting an informal conversation about their individual futures.
With the help of my essential personal assistant, Phillippa Goodwin, we had managed to schedule all three conversations into the last seven days of my working year.
A late hotel supper, afternoon coffee in an airport lounge and a Sunday morning FaceTime video call from my office at home, The Bunker.
There were two reasons that these three conversations prompted me to reflect and comment.
Firstly, they all revolved around the same fundamental question:
"Should I carry on owning my own business and, if so, how can I make it a success?"
Secondly, all three were women who combined business ownership with the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood.
What happened next was the creation of this e-book, with my observations on what it takes to be a successful and happy Female Principal and some very personal stories from real clients.
If this e-book makes you feel less alone and gives you hope, my mission will be served.
