I almost shut down my business - read on to find out why... I heard a quote this week that hit me hard: “The tail doesn’t wag the dog.” It got me thinking about how often we as owners slide into decision-making based on what we think our team wants, with the best intentions of course, because we want a positive culture. We want people to feel heard, and we want to be liked as a boss. But there’s a difference between listening to your team and letting them steer your business. We’re the leaders for a reason. When things go wrong, we’re the ones up late, solving problems and carrying the weight. That responsibility also means we must not feel guilty to make decisions that protect the mission, the students, the standard, and even our own reward for carrying that load. How many times in the past have you felt guilty for treating yourself or receiving a benefit from the business? Those moments are rightfully yours! 4 years ago, I remember feeling hard done by my team because I was working so hard, keeping the business afloat all by myself. It wasn't until I made the decision that I 'put my foot down' and gave them all an ultimatum to shape up, follow the systems and rules I set - for the better of the business and them in the long term. If they didn't agree I told them that I would shut the business down and nobody would have a job. What it resulted in was a highly engaged and independent team that all understood each others roles, responsibilities, and how they were valued within the business. They felt more confident and they started to run the business without me. I ended up travelling South East Asia for 3 months with my wife, while still getting paid! It was unreal. I want this for other business owners and leaders... Not to travel the world necessarily, but to have the ability/freedom to do whatever their equivalent is... I'm interested... Do you feel like you are being directed a little too much by your team, or by the students parents, maybe? This week’s check-in:

Yesterday was a dream. We opened Savvy Studios - Studio III. What started off as a joke (be careful what you throw out into the universe!) with me looking at the building and saying “that'll be mine one day” (ha ha don’t be crazy that’ll never happen) ended up in the dreamiest of studio renovations. It happened. It’s real. I’m in love ❤️ Sending out lots of good fortune and happy vibes as my cup is overflowing so please help yourself!!

In a recent poll that I ran on my socials the top response of what teachers felt they wanted more of was support for their own mental health. So, I’d love to know what areas of your mental wellbeing would you like more advice on? I’d love you to vote in the poll below as this will help shape some upcoming resources I will have to support more teachers. Thanks.

FUN FACT...... Did you know a snake will only grow as large as its environment allows. So If the tank it lives in is too small, its body adapts to fit the space, never reaching its full potential. On my walk this morning, I explored thoughts on how the same applies to us as humans. If your environment is limiting, if the people around you don’t encourage growth, if opportunities are stifled by comfort zones or toxic influences, then you stay small. Not because you aren’t capable of more, but because your surroundings don’t allow you to expand. So I wonder, how many of us are in environments that support your growth? Are you surrounded by people who challenge you, push you, and inspire you to evolve? Or are you stuck in a space that keeps you the same, afraid to outgrow what no longer serves you? Growth requires space. Flourishing requires the right conditions. And sometimes, the only way to truly expand is to break out of the tank you’ve been confined to and step into something bigger. So don’t let your surroundings dictate your potential. Choose an environment that allows you to grow fully, without limitations. I am certainly reassessing the current size of my tank.

Isn't it funny how you can receive the nicest and most complimentary message from a parent on the same day that you receive the most appalling one from a student that plays the Hokey Cokey in classes, moving from one subject to the next, has a break, Mum says "she's bored doing the exam work, she'll come back for the show", insists you email her when it's show term but you don't because you actually don't need to, then they throw a hissy fit and are totally vile on email. My husband says that's why you have 2 ears. I say that's why boxing and wine were created. Proving that perspective is everything! Going to add a "no mean parents" to my studio policy. We very rarely get anything but when you do it's like a pin in your side that slowly deflates you. Anyone got a puncture repair kit?!!