One Year of Jotterbox: Reflections on mindful business growth
One year ago…
I did something I’d never done before.
I started a business built on my strengths, values, and passion.
I created a business that makes a meaningful difference to those I support, both at work and at home.
I took the leap from employment to self-employment.
I honed ideas and joined coaching calls while tandem feeding twins.
I sketched logo concepts in the wee small hours.
I joined the brilliant VACT community and completed the VA Momentum Course.
I became part of other inspiring groups, including the Society of Virtual Assistants (the VA community is honestly one of the most supportive networks I’ve ever experienced).
I sorted the essentials - ICO registration, insurance, and all that fun stuff.
I had a branding photoshoot with the amazing Fiona Millington Photography and started developing my social media presence.
I built my website from scratch.
I created my own CRM (big Notion fan over here)
I grew (and continue to grow) my skillset through courses, trainings, and workshops - It would be impossible to separate myself from my L&D roots completely!
I joined a female founders bootcamp.
I laid the groundwork to grow from working two short days a week… to almost double that.
I juggled work while staying fully present in mum-life - my eldest started school as the littlest two became toddlers.
I listened to about a million podcasts (actual stat).
I drank a lot of tea and ate a socially unacceptable amount of chocolate.
I was quietly apprehensive that it could all come to nothing.
Now, I’d be lying if I said it’s been easy - but, fortunately, it came to something.
Happy first birthday, Jotterbox.
It’s been the intentionally slowest business launch in the history of business launches - but with my books now almost full, I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve built.
Some Key Lessons from Year One:
You can’t do all the things, all at once. And that’s okay. Most people are happy as long as you manage expectations.
It pays to pause. Step away, breathe, and revisit - clarity often comes with space.
Perfection is overrated. I make mistakes. I’m human. The key is to do the thing, even if it’s not flawless (still working on silencing my inner perfectionist).
I’m the gatekeeper of my life. Boundaries between work and home are essential - challenging, yes, but awareness is the first step.
Match tasks to energy. Socials can be done in the margins. Client work gets my prime “feet-under-desk” hours.
Organisation is everything. Planning really is the key to success (but then I would say that as a VA).
Streamline and automate. Save time on repeat tasks - future you will thank you.
Make space for ‘me time’. It’s a cliché for a reason. Essential, yet easily forgotten.
There’s no shame in accepting help. In fact, it’s often the wisest choice.
Every day is a school day, and I know there’s more to learn. But for someone who once found it hard to leap before everything was “just right,” I’m thrilled to be here, and excited for what’s to come.
Here’s to another intentionally considered year of building, connecting, and making a difference to those I support, both in business and in life.
Thank you to my amazing clients and everyone else who has supported me along the way.
