Dublin City Enterprise News Talks To ...
This month, we meet a member of the Dublin City Enterprise Network for Women, Deirdre Cronnelly, a life and business coach and founder of AFRESH.
AFRESH START FOR ENTREPRENEUR
Deirdre spent 15 years in the international telecoms environment working across all company levels before she decided to change career. With a BA Hons and MA, she returned to college and re-qualified as a Life and Business Coach, Nutritional Therapist and Health and Fitness professional. In addition to setting up AFRESH, Deirdre has also been the career and lifestyle coach on irishjobs.ie.
QUESTION-TIME
How did you decide to start your own business?
I always loved working with and motivating teams of people. Over the years, I developed a keen interest in the impact of physical wellness on mental wellness and vice versa and how this affected our ability to perform in both our personal and professional lives. That was why I went back to study coaching, nutrition, health and fitness. I knew I wanted to work with people to assist them make positive changes in their lives, whether that be in their careers, their relationships or wherever. I felt the best way to achieve that goal was by setting up a company which could extend its reach to as many individuals in the country as possible. That's why AFRESH and the team works with both large blue chip companies nationwide and individuals.
What was the greatest stumbling block?
To be honest - myself. There were days when I thought like my family and friends that I was bonkers. Then there were days when I was thought: “am I too old to be totally retraining in a completely new area?”
How did you overcome this?
I acknowledged my fears and put in place a plan that made sure they wouldn't materialise. I used a lot of the tools that I currently use when working with people to overcome doubt and build confidence. I also bounced my ideas off a lot of people who were good enough to listen to me and give me honest feedback. In some instances I took their feedback on board and at other times I just went with my gut!
What is the best & worst thing about being your own boss?
Best: Control over your own destiny! Worst: Sometimes it can be lonely.
In five years’ time?
I'd like to continue getting the type of positive feedback we do from both our corporate and individual clients; it's really fantastic when people come up to you when you are out and about and say you've helped them make some great changes in their lives. I guess to do that we will just keep responding to what we are asked to do and whatever format that take or wherever it takes us, who knows. Watch this space!
Any advice for readers?
If any of you reading this are thinking about starting your own business or indeed have started it and are going through a rough time, don't give up. Believe in yourself, get advice from relevant experts and then go with your gut. I think once you have done the hard practical pragmatic business analysis then listen to your gut. Be true to yourself and you will be happy and successful in your business.
To get in touch with Deirdre, e-mail deirdrecronnelly@afresh.ie, phone (01) 498 2926 or visit www.afresh.ie