Thirteen years ago, The Holistic Ingredient began without a business plan — just a laptop, a whole lot of determination, and a deep desire to feel well again. At the time, I was still unwell with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, having left behind a corporate career that no longer felt aligned. What I did have was an intense passion for recovery, a love of writing, and an appreciation for nourishing food.
So I started a blog — a place to share my thoughts on the many “ingredients” that supported my healing: low-tox living, nutrition, mindset, movement, and relationships. After all, a return to wellness is never just about one thing — it’s holistic.
Fast forward 13 years and that little blog has evolved in ways I could never have imagined. A decade-long therapy practice, a podcast series, a women’s membership program, countless recipes, a growing range of wellness blends and supplements, and now a thriving online store supporting women to live well, age naturally, and find more joy in the everyday.
As I sit here 13 years on, I’ve been reflecting on the many lessons this journey has offered - the messy, beautiful, stretching, soul-growing kind. My hope is that by sharing some of them, they might offer perspective or encouragement to anyone standing at a crossroads, or perhaps just beginning to build something of their own.
1. Burnout is a given unless you create boundaries.
No business is worth destroying your health over. Learn to draw clear lines between work and rest - and hold them. There will always be more to do, but you can’t do any of it well if you’re running on empty.
2. Let go of the stuff that’s not your genius zone.
The energy it takes to do tasks you’re not good at will only pull you away from the things you shine at. Outsource, delegate, or automate where you can - your joy (and output) will thank you for it.
3. If it no longer feels good, let it go.
Businesses evolve, and so do we. If something feels heavy or misaligned, release it. Space always makes way for something new.
4. Pivot as often as you like.
It’s your business, your rules. Don’t cling to a version of your work that no longer fits. Every pivot is an act of growth - and sometimes, a leap of faith.
5. Keep emotions in check when making big decisions.
When you care deeply about your work, it’s easy to get emotionally tangled in it. But some decisions need to come from a place of pragmatism, not passion. Learn when to listen to your head instead of your heart.
6. Prioritise your wellbeing — always.
Your business is only as healthy as you are. My Pilates, weights and cycling sessions fall on the same days and times every week - everything else works around them. Protect what keeps you well.
7. Don’t try to be all things to all people.
Focus on what lights you up, and speak to the people who truly resonate. The right audience will find you - and they’ll stay.
8. Your biggest supporters might be strangers.
And that’s a beautiful thing. The people who champion you most passionately often arrive through your work - proof that connection doesn’t always require proximity.
9. Personal investment is ok, until it’s not.
This might start as a passion project, but remember - it’s not a hobby. There comes a point when you need to make smart, sometimes tough, financial decisions.
10. Surround yourself with the right people.
Bring on those who can work to your energy and values. And if it’s not working - be brave enough to make quick decisions. Protect the harmony of your business (and your nervous system).
11. Don’t forget to celebrate your wins.
Big or small, they matter. Pausing to acknowledge progress is what fuels the next chapter.
12. Inspiration follows rest.
When you’re exhausted, creativity disappears. Step away from the desk, go for a walk, or have a laugh with a friend - the best ideas rarely arrive while staring at a screen.
13. Stay connected to your “why.”
It’s what carries you through the quiet sales days, the late nights, and the moments of doubt. Revisit it often - it’s your anchor and your North Star.
Thirteen years in, I can tell you this much: running a business is one of the most challenging, rewarding, character-building experiences there is. It will ask everything of you - your courage, your patience, your adaptability - and it will give back in ways you can’t predict.
If you’re somewhere on that journey too, I hope these lessons remind you to stay true to yourself, protect your energy, and celebrate how far you’ve come.
Here’s to whatever the next chapter brings 💛
