Small Victories, Big Impact

Learning to believe in yourself when you're a company of one

When was the last time you gave yourself a thumbs up??

Dear Friend 

How are you today? I hope there is sunshine wherever you are today!

I’m writing from my “company of one” hat on today, it’s a timeless tale of David & Goliath, where I find a metaphor that resonates deeply with the journey of entrepreneurship, particularly as I run a small lifestyle business.  

Like David facing the formidable Goliath, I often find myself pitted against larger competitors, with seemingly insurmountable odds stacked against me.  Yet, it’s precisely in these moments that my gift, my determination and my unwavering belief in myself is put to the test.

Having navigated the trenches of corporate life as a sales director for a national radio brand before venturing into the realm of self employment, I know firsthand the challenges that come with standing toe to toe with industry giants.  On some days I’d be physically sick in the toilets before meeting with top notch directors, who’d try and negotiate hard, demanding the cheapest rates for their commercials, never once realising how their gruff attitude affected me.  My anxiety levels were through the roof, this was way back in 2005, but I remember those stressful moments like it was yesterday.  My MD used to say to me, “Tanya, what doesn’t kill you, makes you stringer”. I trusted him with my life, we had a brilliant working relationship, but sometimes I couldn’t see the strength of character that he saw in me.

That’s a story for another day. I am forever grateful to my old MD Tony D, he was the best boss anyone could ever hope for. He was a true gentleman in the cut throat media landscape, always willing to listen, help, support and cheerlead me on.

Those commercial radio days remind me that if I can survive the relentless competition and ruthlessness of corporate life, I can survive running my own small business. Even though to the outside world my life, my little business, looks like it’s stress free, behind the scenes it isn’t always so zen. Most days I’m like a swan, gracefully keeping my shit together on the surface and paddling like f*$@ underneath the water.  It’s a constant battle against self doubt, vulnerability and the relentless demands of entrepreneurship.  But through it all, I’ve learned that adversity only serves to fuel my inner fire and strengthen my resolve.

“Celebrate progress, no matter how small, for it is the fuel that keeps us moving forward”

As a solo-preneur, every day brings its own set of challenges.  From fighting fires to feeling the weight of responsibility resting squarely on my shoulders,  it’s so easy for me to lose sight of my sparkle and my dreams amidst the chaos.  But despite the daily challenges, I keep reminding myself that it’s crucial to remember one thing; I am capable, resilient and worthy of success. 

In my humble opinion, it’s the small, independent businesses - the David’s or the Davina’s of this world that form the lifeblood of our communities and keeps the entrepreneurial spirit alive.

So, if you’re navigating the tumultuous waters of entrepreneurship and find yourself in need of a reminder to believe in yourself, I’ve curated a few therapeutic journaling prompts to help reignite that inner spark and reaffirm your sense of purpose.  Remember, no matter how tough the journey may seem, you are stronger than you know, and your dreams are worth fighting for.

1. Reflect on a time when you accomplished something you once thought was impossible?  What’s strengths or qualities did you tap into to achieve this success?

2. Describe a challenge you’re currently facing in your business or personal life.  How can you draw upon past experiences of overcoming obstacles to navigate this challenge with confidence?

3. List three of your greatest achievements or moments of personal triumph.  How do these successes reflect your inner strength and resilience?

4. Recall a time when someone else believed in you more than you believed in yourself.  How did their faith in you impact your confidence and motivation?  How can you cultivate this same level of belief in yourself?

5. Imagine your ideal future self - the person you aspire to become in 5-10 years' time. What steps can you take today to align yourself with this vision?

Remember, each day to celebrate your small wins !! Because if you don’t, nobody else will. Keep on, keeping on dear friend!

Until the next time

Take care and stay safe xx

Latest news…

The “Creative Unblocking” weekend retreat with ease &

Emma Gannon

launched yesterday and is already 50% sold out, if you’d like more information about the venue, location, the itinerary and rates, please don’t hesitate to email me at hello@easeretreats.com

If you’re a fan of

Claire Venus

check out her latest podcast series, I love her, she is super friendly and a creative Substack genius. I had the pleasure in being interviewed by her a few weeks back and I believe the podcast session will be broadcast this Sunday. Eek!

About me… I’m Tanya Lynch, a mother, a ridgeback owner and the founder of Ease Retreats.  I love what I do, collaborating with authors and creatives, hosting retreats in beautiful venues across the UK.  I’m also a therapeutic journaling coach and through my program Rage on a Page, I help midlife women channel their emotions into something more positive and creative in less than 60 days. Each Thursday I host an online journaling club called Journal with Ease and it’s free for paid subscribers to attend. If you have any questions about the benefits of therapeutic journaling, please reach out and connect. I’m usually on a beach walking the dogs, hosting retreats or hanging out here on Substack.