I had worked in a supermarket for nearly 30 years when I had a bright idea about becoming a self-employed dog groomer, but there was no way I could make such a change. I was too old, I didn’t know anything about self-employment, I probably wouldn’t get any customers, and anyway, the course I’d found to obtain my qualification was in Norwich, and I’d never travelled on my own and stayed away from home.
There were many more reasons why I couldn’t do it - at least that’s what I told myself - but I was desperately unhappy in my job, so I had to do something.
I turned to Kerry. She started by understanding where I was at the time, and where I wanted to be. She explored what I classed as “success” and “happiness”, which was an eye-opener for me.
We planned the first steps of the journey, and then came the action. She was with me every step of the way.
I attended the course and slowly started to build my dog grooming business around my work in the supermarket. I’d given myself a year or so to gently build it up. Less than 3 months in, I was handing my notice into the supermarket, and I was even turning new customers away, I was THAT busy!
That wasn’t the end of Kerry’s support though. I have continued to work with her, and she has continued to be my critical friend; challenging me and my business, and advising on improvements and better ways of working. Did you know that not all business is good business? I didn’t at the time, but I do now!
I’ve had a return on my investment with Kerry, literally 20+ times over (based on how much extra I’ve been able to earn as a result of her support). I’ve realised it’s not all about money though. I’m happier in my work, and I’m operating a business I’m proud of. I’m so pleased I took the leap.
(And yes, this is a picture of me lying on the floor whilst grooming a dog! It was his first visit and he was a little nervous, so this was all part of the process to make him feel comfortable).
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