The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Imposter syndrome is my biggest struggle – there are an increasing number of antenatal and hypnobirthing education providers out there, which is a wonderful but scary thing! I find business social media a bit intimidating at times because I often feel that other people are way more experienced or seem to be doing so well. In those moments, I remind myself of what makes my offering different, and think about the parents I’ve worked with already. Ultimately, I think about the fact that everyone is a human being who is trying to make a difference for themselves, their families and other people, and that you can never fully know their individual struggles and challenges. One thing I’ve done to actively tackle my imposter syndrome is to reach out to other birth workers I come across and make connections, which has led to some wonderful friendships and collaborations.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
It can be hard to know what to do when you’re sitting in a room by yourself! I do sometimes miss having other people to bounce ideas off of, or to hold me accountable when I’ve said I’ll do the thing I need to do! This is where networking groups have been brilliant – everyone has something to bring to the table and we can all learn from and be inspired by each other. Saying that, I love being able to make my own decisions about my branding and messaging, which is why I chose to set up my own business rather than join a franchise. I like to be able to take full ownership of my successes and mistakes, in the knowledge that always I can be my authentic self, warts and all! I love being able to manage my own time so that I can show up every day for my business and for my family. Being able to pick my children up each day from school after a productive day is a very nice feeling!
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Oh there are so many! I would love to have a physical and online classroom space that I have full control over, where people can come and learn about all things birth and baby. I imagine a truly collaborative space where, for example, people could come for pregnancy yoga, antenatal classes, doula services, breastfeeding support, baby groups – all the support from bump, to birth and beyond!
Visit the Empowered Birthing website to find out more, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
