





At 24 I was leading a retail chain of five stores, I was a whirlwind of ambition and determination. Each day brought a new set of decisions, challenges, and opportunities for learning. The weight of responsibility was heavy, but it was a burden I carried with pride and enthusiasm.
My days started before dawn, embodying Seneca's wisdom, "It is not that we have a short time to live, but that we waste a lot of it." I was determined not to waste a moment. The stores were my canvas, and I painted with bold strokes of innovation and leadership.
In those early days, I was fueled by a mix of adrenaline and aspiration. I felt the rush of success with every positive customer review and each spike in sales. But with success came setbacks – unexpected challenges, tough decisions, and the relentless pressure to perform. These moments tested and ultimately forged my leadership mettle.
I remember a particularly challenging period when supply chain issues threatened to derail our momentum. It demanded not just hard work, but smart work. I dove into books and resources, seeking wisdom from seasoned entrepreneurs. I applied stoic principles, focusing on what I could control and accepting what I couldn't. This period taught me resilience, the art of pivoting quickly, and the importance of having a robust support system.
My leadership style evolved rapidly. I learned that true leadership wasn't just about driving profits or managing stores; it was about inspiring my team and leading by example. I embraced Maya Angelou's philosophy: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." I focused on building relationships, understanding that each employee's unique genius and talent were integral to our collective success.
At 24, running a retail chain was more than a job; it was a journey of personal and professional transformation. I emerged not just as a successful business owner but as a leader who understood the profound impact of authenticity, empathy, and continuous learning in the realm of business. This experience became a cornerstone of my philosophy, shaping the empowering, evidence-based approach I champion today. I can't wait to talk about your business and creating the life of your choosing!
Suzanne