As BBA member, Lucy O’Donoghue, founder of Lucy O’Donoghue Consulting, celebrates 14 years in business, she is reflecting on the people who supported her in those early days, those who trusted her with their business, the lessons learned through challenging times, and the importance of continuing to evolve as unexpected curve balls came her way.
The past 14 years have taught her that success is rarely a straight line. It’s a journey of resilience, re-invention and being brave. It’s about showing up, embracing change and moving forward, even when the path ahead isn’t entirely clear.
14 Lessons from 14 Years in Business
- You Don’t Need Perfect Timing to Start
If I’d waited for the perfect moment, I would never have started. I knew I was ready for a new chapter, even if I didn’t know exactly what it would look like.
- Confidence is Key
There were times when I didn’t feel confident, especially when stepping outside my comfort zone or taking on something new. Ilearned that confidence and self-belief grow, stepping up when it matters.
- Relationships Matter
Clients may come and go but personal and professional relationships, built over years, endure. Investing in people, all through my career, has led to new opportunities, referrals, collaborations and sometimes a valuable chat over coffee when it was most needed.
- Listen Carefully to Others
Some of the best ideas come from conversations with clients and understanding their changing needs. Taking the time to listen often reveals opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
- Your business Will Evolve and so Should You
The services I offer today are very different from those I started with 14 years ago. The pandemic, in particular, challenged me to adapt and new opportunities quickly emerged. That growth required an open mind and a willingness to learn new technology.
- Not Every Opportunity is the Right Opportunity
Learning to say no is just as important as learning to say yes. Early on it can be tempting to pursue every opportunity, but not every opportunity may be aligned with your expertise or values. I have learned to trust my instinct and recognise that saying no is sometimes the right decision.
- Visibility Matters
Whilst actively promoting others, I’ve learned that it’s equally important to ensure people know who I am and how I can help. If people don’t know you exist, they cannot benefit from what you offer.
- Your Networks and Contacts are Invaluable
Active participation in business organisations such as Ballincollig Business Association and Network Cork, while supporting local initiatives has created opportunities that would never have arisen otherwise. The connections made through these networks have led to numerous referrals and friendships.
- Learn to Ask for Help
You don’t need to have all the answers. Asking for advice, support or expertise when needed will save time and reduce stress.
- Have a Strong Inner Circle
Surround yourself with people you trust. A supportive network will celebrate your successes, help navigate the challenging times, will act as a sounding board and remind you that you are not alone.
- Your Reputation is Built Everyday
You are only as good as your last job, so every interaction matters. Showing up, delivering on your promises, communicating clearly, being reliable and often going the extra mile, all contribute to the reputation you build over time.
- Putting Yourself First is not Selfish
Protecting your energy, your focus, your self-care, is not a luxury. It’s essential for maintaining momentum, creativity, making smart decisions and showing up consistently for your clients and your business.
- Schedule Time for Yourself
Treat personal time with the same importance as a client meeting or time in the office. Blocking it into your diary makes it far more likely to happen and creates healthy boundaries. Taking regular time away allows you to recharge and return more focused and energetic.
- Celebrate the Wins
Some business owners often move quickly on to the next task. Taking the time to acknowledge winning a new client, receiving a complimentary testimonial, seeing a client success matters, and should be celebrated.
