Life doesn’t always go to plan. I never aspired to be a single parent. I got married because I was in ‘love’ and wanted a family. But in 2012, I found myself as a single parent to three children aged 8,10 and 12. I was juggling the immense responsibility of being the sole provider (their dad did pay maintenance, but it wasn’t much) Keeping my children’s home was my priority, and at times, it felt like an impossible battle. There were moments of fear, uncertainty, and exhaustion. But I refused to let my circumstances define my future. Instead, I looked at what I could control and took it!
A pivotal moment came when I became connected to a business coach who gifted me a book: Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker. I read it cover to cover and committed to completing its financial exercises every Christmas. It shifted my mindset and helped me set intentional financial and career goals. Year after year, I took small but purposeful steps toward financial stability and professional growth. That first year, I remortgaged my home, adding seven years to my mortgage to keep it, but I was determined to create a better future for my children.
Through hard work, visibility, and persistence, I climbed the career ladder—sometimes sideways, sometimes up, but always forward. Now in 2025, I hold a senior learning leader role, heading up a team and own my own small career coaching business. I’m earning a salary that once felt out of reach and has exceeded the salary amount, I dreamed of having all those years ago. Looking back, I’m proud of me and I can see three key lessons that helped me get here.
- Show Up and Be Visible
I have always given 110% in the jobs I’ve held, striving to exceed expectations, but it’s not just about working hard, it’s about making sure people see your contributions. I consistently went above and beyond, volunteered for new projects, and made my expertise known. Visibility creates opportunities. If you want to grow, make sure the right people see what you bring to the table.
- Set Clear Financial and Career Goals
Having a vision for where you want to be financially and professionally given you a roadmap. Every year, I set financial goals inspired by Secrets of the Millionaire Mind and aligned my career moves to support them. Whether it was taking on a new challenge or negotiating a better salary, having a clear plan helped me make strategic decisions.
- Take Opportunities—Even When You’re Not 100% Ready
Some of my biggest career leaps happened when I said “yes” before feeling fully prepared. I’ve taken on projects I knew nothing about, and I’ve learned on the job. Growth happens outside your comfort zone. If you wait until you feel 100% ready, you may never take that step. Trust yourself, learn as you go, and embrace new challenges.
Final thoughts
Success isn’t about having an easy path—it’s about taking control of your journey despite the obstacles. Through my work, I now help professionals navigate career transitions with clarity and confidence. Whether it’s stepping into a new role, finding purpose in your work, or building the courage to make a change, the right support can make all the difference. If you’re facing a turning point in your career, know that you’re not alone—there’s always a way forward.
“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” – C.S. Lewis
