Backing Yourself: What International Women’s Day Means to Me
International Women’s Day is often framed as a celebration of how far we’ve come. For me, it’s about the power of backing yourself and the importance of learning about yourself.
As I look back over the last few years, I’m proud! I backed myself. I’ve learnt masses. I feel more capable and confident in my abilities than ever before. What started as chats about a gap in the market over the bins with our neighbour has turned into an established, successful business.
Over 2,000 of you have visited Puffin Cove. Hearing how you describe us validates exactly why this business was born:
“Puffin Cove is such a gem”
“The perfect escape”
“A genuinely relaxed setting”
“A lot less hectic than alternatives”
“Clean and safe environment”
Starting Puffin Cove for me was a leap from the corporate world into a community venture. I am proud to say: I did it. I created a space that didn't exist before, and seeing it bustle every day is the ultimate professional reward.
I’ve learnt more about myself in the last few years than during any other period of my life. I’ve moved from the City to the Chilterns; I now live with a man whose name I’ve taken (I married a "good’un," but my mum-identity crisis was certainly compounded by having “his” name!); I have two gorgeous children; I left the corporate world; and I started my own business.
Through all of that, I’ve learnt what makes me tick. And for that reason—as I shared in January—it’s time for me to pass Puffin Cove on to someone else.
What makes me tick is taking on puzzles. Big, daunting, ambiguous puzzles. Usually, puzzles that have stalled or stumped others. Now that Puffin Cove is firmly established, it is ready for a new owner to bring their own energy and ideas to build on the foundations already laid.
Since sharing that I am looking for the next owner, it has been incredible to meet so many people—predominantly women, but a few men too—who are genuinely inspired by what Puffin Cove represents. It has reaffirmed what I always knew: this is a true lifestyle business for the right person. It offers the rare opportunity to own a punchy, professional asset that truly fits around a real life.
To the women (and everyone) in our community: thank you for supporting Puffin over the last year and a bit. Whether you’re here for the events, a private party, or just a quiet latte on a day when parenting feels like a lot, you are the reason I’m so glad I backed myself all those years ago.
If you’ve been watching from the sidelines and thinking “I could do that” or “I wish Puffin did…”, perhaps this is your sign to take the leap and back yourself. Drop me a message!
If you’re reading this as another post on International Women’s Day, this one has a simple message for women and everyone: Back yourself, and make sure you’re learning about "you" as you go.