Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in leadership development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Katrina Holden, Founder of Katrina Holden Limited T/A Vital Leaders, located in East Dean, East Sussex, UK.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Leadership coaching and development. My clients are executive women who struggle with their confidence. They're strong and capable women, only not able to own their value in the workplace and struggle to own their achievements and accolades.
Tell us about yourself
I started my career in the corporate world. I worked incredibly hard with talented people and achieved great success- only I constantly felt like a fraud. I spent 25+ years not understanding my own strengths nor valuing my contributions. I had no confidence in my abilities. I had no voice. I had to constantly prove myself - to myself. I worked crazy hours and dealt with long, stressful commutes. I grabbed whatever food was quick and easy from airports and train stations. I drank copious amounts of coffee in a bid to stay awake and feel alive. I had no time for myself, my friends, or my family. I was angry most of the time. I was stuck in a cycle of people pleasing with a crippling imposter syndrome and a deafening inner critic. I burned out and became seriously ill. For 7 years, I battled graves disease, vasculitis, and cancer.
During this time, I discovered the power of coaching, personal development, and neurobiology. Unsurprisingly I began to come back to life and then thrive. As my authentic voice became louder and with a renewed sense of purpose, my confidence exploded. I knew I had to share my story to inspire and teach others the importance of resilience, vitality, and leadership. My greatest motivation comes from my clients and witnessing the transformation that happens with this work. I support ambitious women to own their genius by equipping them to step into their courage and speak up, break through barriers, and succeed in life - and it's a joy to be able to work alongside them as they become the vital leaders they're destined to be.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am a businesswoman in her 50's. One of my greatest accomplishments as a business owner is inspiring other women over 50 to step up and live their dreams - that it's never too late to take that first step toward the life you dream of.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Finding the right people to come on board and support the vision. It's not as difficult as it was in the beginning - experience has taught me discernment!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you feel passionate about your work and have a plan that will take you toward that North Star.
- Take care of your vitality - know who you are and what you need to feel healthy, fulfilled, and on purpose.
- Surround yourself with great people that will support you as you navigate your way - people who will celebrate the wins as well as help pick you up and dust you off when things don't go so well.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://katholden.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katholdenofficial/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-holden-01756722/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.
