I’ve witnessed the roller-coaster of three small businesses since 1992, and every bump in the road was like a stepping stone leading me to something better.
First, I dabbled in waste paper recycling, but it didn’t quite click with my audience.
Then, I took a swing at photography and online merchandise sales, proving that adaptability is the name of the game in the business world.
Today, I’m the proud owner of a window-washing small business on Kangaroo Island. It’s here that I’ve learned to savor the simple things and find joy in life’s small pleasures. Because sometimes, success isn’t about the big fireworks – it’s about the tiny, glowing stars.
These are the secret ingredients I used for turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones on your path to a brighter future. Maybe they will work for you also:

1: Hope – My Superpower
Hope has been my trusty sidekick on this crazy life journey. It’s the secret sauce that keeps my engine running. To tackle life’s curveballs, I’ve learned to do three things: believe in myself, be patient, and keep good folks close by.
2: Rollin’ with the Punches
Being flexible, paying attention, and not being afraid to be a little different have helped me survive life’s ups and downs. It’s like dancing through the ever-changing music of life.
3: Oops, I Did It Again
Mistakes have been my best teachers. Being humble, thinking about what went wrong, and seeing every goof-up as a chance to get better – that’s the recipe for success.
4: Ch-Ch-Changes
Change is like my constant companion in this journey. Staying curious, taking smart risks, and bouncing back from hiccups – it’s like surfing the waves of change.
5: Not Letting Life’s Oops Define Me
I’ve got a mantra, and I rarely let setbacks get me down. Staying cool when things go south, keeping my self-worth intact, and sticking to my goals – that’s how I roll. Mostly.
6: Conquering Cold Calls
Being a cold-call champ is about talking the talk, having confidence, and being tough when you hear “no.” It’s like mastering a secret agent mission!
7: Handling Rejection Like a Pro
Dealing with rejection is all about keeping your cool, being kind to yourself, and adapting your game. It’s like learning from life’s feedback.
8: Chasing Checks – The Nice Way
Getting paid late by clients is a pain. But being patient, assertive, and flexible helps keep the good vibes while getting your hard-earned dough.
9: Island Life, My Way
Living the dream on a small island means loving the simple things, being grateful, and working hard on your own terms. It’s like a tropical adventure every day.
In the end, these qualities are like the bricks that build the house of your personal and professional growth. They’re not just tools to tackle the twists in the story but also keys to unlocking success on your entrepreneurial adventure.
I now consider my journey a personal masterclass in embracing change and grabbing opportunities with both hands.
Embrace the ride, go with the flow, and never forget to keep that hope alive.
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