21/10/2025
❤️ Good morning all, it’s a bit ‘autumnal’ out there today, which is okay. I thought I’d share a story about my journey from coffee shop owner, to storyteller as we have some new people within our community🌳
Eight years ago, I picked up the keys to my very own coffee shop, I was full of vision, hope, and, if I’m honest, a touch of naivety.
Two weeks later, I learned more than I ever expected about business, resilience, and myself.
The early days were rough. Customers stayed away, challenges piled up, and a few people tried their hardest to tear us down. But I stood my ground, learned fast, and found my people, the ones who believed, supported, and returned. I was bullied, stalked, and threatened! But that didn’t stop me!
Then came lockdown, the unexpected turning point. I pivoted during the second week, kept the business alive, and re-discovered my own strength. But when burnout hit, I had an epiphany: I no longer wanted to run on survival mode. Lockdown stripped everything back and reminded me what mattered most to me, vision, creativity, and authenticity ✨
I realised:
I’m not competitive.
I’m a visionary.
I’m creative.
I won’t fit at every table — and that’s okay.
I care deeply.
And I’m done being a people pleaser.
Those lessons became gold; an alchemical journey. They led me to where I am now, balancing a meaningful role in the NHS alongside a business that reflects who I truly am.
Because for me, it was never just about coffee.
It was always about the stories, and it always will be. The stories I have gathered, have become a stepping stone to something more in line with what I want to achieve, and I have no regrets, just a determination and a strong desire to live a fulfilling life 🌳
I’d love to hear about your turning points, or realisations. Life has a ‘funny’ way of challenging us. But it’s our reaction to the challenge that determines who we truly are 🙌💫