“Working with Kathy gave me the confidence to take control of my business — and open my own shop!”
Feeling Like My Business Was Running Me
I came across Kathy through the free BIPC courses she was running at local libraries. I’d done online courses before, but they were too generic — I was working hard on my business but felt like I wasn’t making any progress.
I’d set up my jewellery business because I love making jewellery. I never expected it to grow the way it did, but suddenly it felt like it was in charge — not me. I was constantly reacting to things and had no idea what to do next.
Kathy’s sessions changed everything.
She really knows her onions! She has this way of listening to my long ramblings, picking out the core of the issue, and then offering up clear options and ideas to move forward. And what really stood out for me was how much she genuinely cared — about me, my business, and my goals. Her support wasn’t just knowledgeable, it was grounded and real. No “sign up for this expensive programme” nonsense — just proper, tested, practical help.
Reframing My Business and Rebuilding My Confidence
We started by looking at the business I thought I had, and Kathy showed me what it actually was.
That perspective shift was huge.
One of the first things she asked me to do was gather five adjectives from friends, family, customers, and suppliers about me and my business. That turned out to be such a powerful task. I saw what they saw and it helped shape how I talk about my business across everything: my website, social media, product listings, even just answering the question “what do you do?”
I suddenly felt proud of what I’d built. I saw it with fresh eyes.
Some of the other things we worked on:
- Creating a long-term plan (1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 years — I’ve done it twice already and can already see I need to aim higher!)
- Taking practical actions after every session that gave me more control and confidence
- Making my “back office” more streamlined and efficient
- Working out when and how I wanted to run things — without guilt!
- Using templates, tools, videos, and resources that actually made things easier
We met face-to-face for some sessions and online for others. The fortnightly rhythm worked perfectly — enough time to reflect, take action, and come back with new thoughts. And honestly, I just really appreciated the human contact.
Proud, Purposeful, and With a Shop of My Own!
One of the biggest differences is that now I *use* all the notes I took during our sessions — and I keep going back to them. They still help me take things further.
I’ve completely changed how I handle the admin side of my business. I have proper routines in place and I’m strict about sticking to them. I don’t feel bad about taking time off anymore — I know it’s part of running a sustainable business.
I can confidently say:
- I know where my business sits in the market, and why
- I make better decisions based on what I want and how my business works best
- I write social media posts that connect with my ideal customers
- And…
I opened a bricks-and-mortar shop!
I honestly don’t think I would’ve had the confidence to do that without Kathy
Sometimes I still feel a bit lost without her, but I know she’s got an “aftercare” option I’ll definitely go back to. For now, I’m just enjoying sitting in my business and living the adventure — which is exactly what we should all be able to do.
“Working with Kathy has been the best investment I’ve ever made in my business. I just wish I’d found her sooner! She helped me see my own potential, trust my instincts, and build a business that fits me, not the other way around. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reactive, or unsure — don’t wait. Get her in your corner.”
Do You Feel Like Your Business Is Running You?
If you’re working hard but still feel like you’re not getting anywhere — you’re not alone. Kathy helped me take back control of my business, and she can help you too.