[Episode 37] From Baby Steps to Business Growth: A Mother’s Day Reflection on Success

Eighteen years ago, I became a mother—and everything changed. I held my newborn in one arm and, not long after, a laptop in the other, looking for a way to continue working without sacrificing those early, precious moments at home.

Back then, working from home wasn’t common. However, I was fortunate to have a progressive, future-focused boss who gave me the opportunity to work from home during my pregnancy. It was during maternity leave that I began researching home-based businesses—an option that would allow me to stay professionally engaged while being present as a parent.

That was the start of my business journey.

My why was simple but powerful: I wanted my son to grow up seeing his mother contributing financially. I also craved flexibility, purpose, and a life aligned with my values. It was a leap made from love, necessity, and a bit of creative problem-solving. And that leap changed everything.

What Does Success Look Like for You?

We talk a lot about success in business circles—but often it’s someone else’s definition. Big revenue. Bigger teams. Viral visibility.

But for me? Success meant working from home with freedom and impact—on my terms.

Your version of success might be building solid foundations: a stable, fulfilling business that gives you breathing room and balance. Or maybe you're aiming for the stars—scaling, hiring, expanding your influence. Neither is better than the other—they’re just different destinations.

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned—and now guide clients through—is that success must be personally defined to be truly sustainable.

Parenthood Was My Path—But Everyone’s Path is Valid

I want to be clear: while parenthood led me to business, I work with all kinds of professionals—parents, not-yet-parents, and those who’ve chosen not to walk that path.

This story is simply my story.

Your motivation for starting a business might be entirely different—and that’s the beauty of it. Whether it's a yearning for impact, creative freedom, financial independence, or legacy-building, it all counts.

What matters is that your business reflects who you are and what matters most to you.

Jack Canfield and the Power of Personal Responsibility

Early into my journey, I discovered The Success Principles by Jack Canfield. His work became a compass for me—especially the principle of taking 100% responsibility for your life and outcomes.

That idea transformed the way I thought about business—and life.

I realised I couldn’t wait for someone to hand me the perfect role. I had to create it.
And that’s exactly what I’ve helped hundreds of clients do since.

My coaching is rooted in these same principles: clarity, responsibility, mindset, and aligned action—designed to grow with you as you grow.

A Path That Led to Purpose—and Keeps Evolving

I’m also incredibly grateful that this path—initially sparked by motherhood—opened the door to many years working in philanthropy, supporting charities, and fundraising for incredible causes.

That work continues to be a meaningful part of my professional life today. Philanthropy has not only shaped how I do business, but also continues to offer rich choices and rewarding opportunities to work alongside people and projects making a real difference.

Now that my son has graduated from school and stepped into adulthood, I find myself in a new season—one where I seek diversity and deeper meaning in my work. I’m embracing a portfolio approach that honours my experience, values, and evolving goals. And I bring that same mindset to the coaching I offer others.

From Flexible Beginnings to Next-Level Growth

My first business was stitched together between nap times, late nights, and a whole lot of learning on the go. Since then, I’ve built multiple businesses and worked with creatives, consultants, and community leaders.

Each brought their own version of success.
Each required flexible, deeply personalised support.

That’s why Ask Fleur isn’t a one-size-fits-all program. It’s business coaching that adapts to you—your season, your strengths, your story.

A Mother’s Day Message for All

So whether you’re a mother, a caregiver, a professional reinventing yourself, or someone chasing a long-held dream:

Your journey is valid.
Your business is worth backing.
And you deserve a version of success that feels like home.

Ready to build a business you love—on your terms?
Take my quick survey and let’s talk about what success looks like for you.
💻 https://www.askfleur.com/ask-fleur

PS: If you're feeling the pull to design or refine your business journey, now’s a great time to explore the Ask Fleur Success Community. Let’s grow, together.