How wonderful it is to have been influenced by so many Women in Business that we were able to stitch together two articles! To read the first installment of this 2-part journey, click here.

First, a note on the importance of Transformation

Human transformation provides a clear path for each individual to live up to their full potential and to live their lives with greater purpose, clarity, and passion.

Business transformations are designed to boost overall performance through increased revenue, lower operating costs, and better customer satisfaction and workforce productivity. For years now, transformation has been a catchall term for how organizations make the right moves to achieve their full potential.

For most of us, our business will only transform if the human(s) at the helm is willing to shed the old skin and make way for the new. Over the years, working with successful women has helped me to see what is possible if you’re willing to change.

Amy Perzan Merrill, Creative Director, Meringue314

Article Cover Image: Snake. Thorn Valley Ranch, Alberta. Historically, serpents and snakes represent fertility or a creative life force. As snakes shed their skin through sloughing, they are symbols of rebirth, transformation, immortality, and healing. The ouroboros is a symbol of eternity and the continual renewal of life.

Part 2: Advice from successful women in business

On the importance of… Learning from your mistakes

Life is a precious gift full of ongoing lessons, good and bad, which is what is needed in order to help each of us learn and grow. You need to be authentic in what you do every day and know that what you think and believe is truly what will become.

Know what your strengths are, know what your strengths are not, and build a team that covers everything you need in order to succeed. Don’t be afraid to try something new or fail, as this is where we learn and grow. When you believe in something strong enough, truly anything is possible.

Lastly, never take anything for granted, things will not always be the way they are today, you can be assured of that. The ongoing stages of development in life or in business, is all about growth from beginning to end. Simply learn to embrace it, accept it and enjoy the ride.

Taryn Klyne

Image: Rain on Kneehills Creek, Thorn Valley Ranch, Alberta. Rain can symbolize many things. It can represent unhappiness, rebirth, foreboding, determination, the breaking of a drought, and a pause for introspection. It has been used as a symbol for many thousands of years, perhaps most notably in the floods in the bible.

On the importance of… Authenticity

Always be 100% honest and your authentic self. Never worry what other people think of you. Set a goal. One of my first goals was to take my family to Disneyland the next spring. I had never been. It wasn’t a sales goal it was just something I really wanted to do. Be kind to people and helpful to others. Believe you are worth it. Always be open to new ideas and willing to change.

Mary McGregor, McGregor Financial

Image: Pine Tree. Much like the plum tree, the pine tree flourishes in the wintertime. While other trees stand barren, the pine continues to provide color with refreshing green needles. In Korea, the pine tree represents strength in the face of adversity and strong moral character.

On the importance of… Surroundings

To achieve true success, remember that you don’t have to go it alone; choose your companions wisely. It’s common for entrepreneurs to shoulder every task themselves in an effort to save costs, but this often leads to burnout and mediocre results spread across various areas instead of excelling in a few. Consider the alternatives: outsourcing, hiring, or automating tasks. Though there may be initial costs, the long-term benefits outweigh them, granting you the space and energy to focus on what truly propels your business forward.

Additionally, surround yourself with a supportive, inspiring, and challenging circle, and minimize exposure to individuals with a scarcity or negative mindset. Never hesitate to seek assistance when needed; asking for help is a sign of strength and an avenue for growth.

Megan Stanley, Founder & President, Dogma Training & Pet Services Inc

Image: Moss, Beaver Mines Lake, Alberta. In Native American culture, moss is seen as a plant that can bring about new beginnings. It is also a plant believed to be able to cleanse and purify the soul. The moss is also a symbol of fertility, growth, and abundance. When the moss is used in a sacred ceremony, it is believed to be able to help one connect with the spirit world. This plant is also seen as a symbol of strength and perseverance. If you’re drawn to moss symbolism, it might be a sign that you need to start fresh or that you need to let go of something negative in your life. {Source}

On the importance of… Vision

I’ve always supported the idea of never losing sight of your dreams and ultimate goals no matter the challenges and setbacks. I heard an expert on the subject say recently in a tv interview- you need to focus on your short term/today goals in order to achieve the long term ones.

When you turn dreams into vision you can make that vision a reality by working hard.

Dreams are great but they can’t come true without work. Work too hard and you lose vision so it’s important to consider your daily life and creating a balance … paying attention to your self, the people who matter, being kind (pets included). People like me are often inaccurately described as fashion mavens, having a “passion for fashion” should not suggest it’s your whole life. That would be sad. I repeat the word balance.

Peggy Morrison, Executive Program Director, Fashion Marketing and Design Programs

Image: Poplar, Castle Falls, Alberta. Lightworkers tell us that Poplar is a bower of possibilities and manifestation. Poplar vibrates with strong Earth energies including those associated with finances, providence and the uncanny ability for humans to overcome even the most difficult of blockages. Some feel that listening to poplar leaves when the breeze blows gently is one way to get messages from past lives, our Higher Self and the Divine.

To sum up in one place here are our main takeaways from all the contributions:

reach for the stars
learn from your mistakes
have confidence
be authentically you
operate with integrity
surround yourself with the right people
take care of yourself
never lose sight of your dreams

I hope you found wisdom in these musings. Whether you are just starting out in business, have been running a successful business for years or still dreaming up your business idea, this advice applies to all.

Part 2: Advice from successful women in business