The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Concerning my separation, this was quite challenging as it was not an amicable split and shared custody continues to be difficult. I am sure many single mothers can relate. Overcoming this has been tricky and involved a lot of work on myself, my attitude and my perception of the world. In addition, as mentioned, I launched the business in April 2022. And in July 2022, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Talk about a spanner in the works. I was lucky to only require a few major surgeries before being given the all-clear. I am still monitored closely; however, physically, I feel well. This experience was a big eye-opening event. Coming face to face with the possibility of death as a single parent allowed me to put many issues in perspective and gain a deeper understanding of the important things in life.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The two biggest pros about running my business are the satisfaction of helping and the autonomy of my work hours. I also have the ability to be a mother first while I am still needed and the possibility to grow for the time when I cease to be needed so much.
The cons, hmmm. The buck stops with me, so I have to be disciplined with myself. The knowledge required to run a business is astounding-the technical know-how, marketing and financial record keeping. The last year has been the biggest learning curve of my life, and I’m still learning!
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I am currently working with my website developers to create a bookstore on the Single Mama Way website – a place where mums will be able to buy my works or works of other authors who contribute tremendously to single mums’ mental health and well-being. I am also working on small personal development courses geared to support and improve the mental health and emotional needs of single mums in Australia and worldwide. And on a more local front, I want to create a social connection group and a social media group where mums can support mums through any stage of their solo journey.
Visit the Single Mama Way website to find out more. You can also connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Spotify.
