I've spent my career navigating - and often challenging - the dynamics of two industries where women haven't traditionally held much ground: technology and property.
Along the way, I've learned that real growth rarely happens when things are easy. It's forged in difficult moments - when you're tested, questioned, or underestimated. Those experiences didn't just build my resilience; they taught me that leadership is less about reaching the top and more about evolving along the way.
My credentials to speak on this come from a long-standing relationship with hard life lessons, where career and personal challenges often collided - sometimes harder than I would have liked. As the child of immigrants fleeing war-torn countries, I grew up with a sense of foreboding that didn't shield me from challenges, but shaped the way I respond to them. I've experienced divorce as a young mother, losing my home at one stage, and having to forge an entirely new career before returning to entrepreneurship.
What I've learned is that growth doesn't come from comfort - it comes from challenge. Life lessons aren't a one-off; growth is continuous.
Here are my eight reflection points:
Strength comes from vulnerability
When my former husband and I lost our family home, it coincided with the breakdown of our marriage. To add complexity, we worked together on our business. Now, a logical mind might have suggested staying to salvage the situation. Instead, I trusted my instincts and removed myself, rather than follow the conventional path.
I learned that real strength lies in vulnerability. Being authentic and showing that I'm human invites connection and trust. When I allow myself to be open, people see that I'm not made of steel - and that's powerful. Vulnerability isn't weakness; it's strength with grace and self-control. Silence can also be powerful, giving you space to reflect.
My power comes from owning who I am: my sensitivity, style, and authenticity. That's what makes me strong. In the long run, this decision paid off tenfold.
Real leaders don't perform - they show up
After a 12-year career pivot working in property, I was invited back to the board of the company I had originally joined with my husband (who had long exited the business). I had the chance to lead as CEO, and my golden rule was authenticity.
Why? People see through facades quickly. In the first 30 seconds, even if not immediately, they sense whether you're genuine. As a leader, you don't have time to perform. Show up as yourself from the start. Be real, be confident, and own who you are. That's how trust and lasting influence are built. And never stop listening - this is a skill we often have to learn.
The power of eight minutes
Throughout my decades of adversity, I've drawn strength from my support network - friends, family, and trusted peers. But asking for help isn't always about solutions; sometimes, it's about being heard. I use a simple code: 'I need eight minutes.' It means, 'I don't need advice right now; I just need you to listen.'
Leaders often feel pressure to solve everything. But real strength is knowing when to lean on others - not to be fixed, but to be understood. Sometimes, talking it through is all it takes to gain clarity and move forward.
Earlier this year, we faced hiking all our global customer pricing following the announcement of tariffs. Implementing this would have cost £1 million. While the solution ultimately came from my C-suite, I needed to be heard during a month of sleepless nights.
Discipline yourself to stay positive
Don't let your mind spiral into negativity before anything has even happened. Prepare for possibilities, but don't assume the worst - most of what we fear never materialises.
When you have to say no or make a tough call, trust your reasons. Intuition is often a leader's greatest strength. Don't waste energy worrying that your decision will turn people against you. Stay calm, grounded, and protect your headspace.
Positivity isn't blind optimism; it's discipline. It's knowing when to pause, recharge, and put yourself first. No one will take care of you the way you can. Whether it's a walk, a coffee with a friend, or quiet time to breathe, build those moments in. That's how you stay strong, clear, and ready for whatever comes next.
Every day, I gift myself something. Not materially, but a circuit breaker, even if it's just a 10-minute stroll in the park. "That's just for you," I remind myself. This is a reminder that you still have control and can always include a positive element to any situation.
'Just let them'
This concept has been made famous by US author, Mel Robbins. When I rejoined my original company, I was heavily undermined by a chauvinistic board member. Let's just say he didn't last long.
When faced with negativity, criticism, or difficult behaviour, use the power of 'just let them.' Let them act out. You don't need to engage, defend, or correct. Their behaviour doesn't define you; it reveals them.
Also, it's rarely personal. Most of the time, people project their own pain, insecurity, or past experiences. You just happen to be in the line of fire. Strong leaders know when to rise above. Protect your energy, stay composed, and keep your focus where it belongs, which is on your purpose, not their noise.
Protect your energy: no one else will
My job involves extensive travel between London, the US, and our European manufacturers. A week at home is rare. At this stage in my life and career, I know I am the priority. My strength, focus, and health set the tone for everyone around me, my team, my family, my wider circle. If I'm not at my best, I can't give my best.
That means protecting my energy: prioritising sleep, movement, nutrition, and time in nature. These aren't luxuries, they're leadership essentials. Sleep is just as critical as food and exercise. I've learned to set boundaries - no late-night calls, no unnecessary distractions.
Some might call it selfish. I call it self-leadership. A strong leader isn't the one who burns out; it's the one who stays steady, healthy, and present for everyone who depends on them.
Listen to lead
Stop planning your response while someone is speaking. Listen first, really listen. As a CEO, your mind moves at 100 miles an hour, and it's tempting to jump ahead with answers. But you won't have all the information until you hear the full story. Leadership is about presence and patience. Mastering the art of listening before responding sharpens your decisions and strengthens your influence.
Never stop being kind
In my darkest moments, not least when I lost my home and career, there were individuals in my life (and still are) who showed up.
Kindness is a strength, not a weakness. Never lose sight of treating others with respect and empathy as you climb. It's part of what sets women leaders apart: our ability to combine drive with humanity. That doesn't mean every woman is naturally nurturing in business, but embracing empathy and kindness is a conscious, powerful choice.
