As a holistic HR and business consultant, I've seen how integrating strategic planning, cultural development, and human-focused practices can transform small businesses.

When you align your growth strategy with your values and prioritise both financial success, personal development and employee wellbeing, amazing things happen.

What's your biggest challenge in scaling your small business?

As we peeled back the layers, we uncovered that there was a real lack of clarity. Lack of clarity about what he wanted from the business, where it was headed, what he needed from his team etc etc. Every day he felt that he was totally out of control - running from one panic situation to the next and never getting on top of the things that he knew would move the business forward. The team were confused, lacked motivation and were not performing.

I help small business owners (those with up to about 20 staff) grow their companies sustainably and intentionally. It's about scaling while keeping your people at the heart of everything you do.

My approach? It's a carefully balanced blend of business strategy, HR and people expertise, and personal development. Think of me as your dedicated business consultant with a keen focus on the human element.

The People Consultancy, Emily Perry

When we're in a dysregulated nervous system state, it's nearly impossible to show up as our best selves in our life and work.

The procrastination and avoidance are often a self-protective mechanism.

By compassionately listening to the wisdom of the body, we can figure out the right level of intensity to stay within our window of tolerance and tune in to our nervous system; it’s here to help.

You know you are great at what you do, but sometimes you just feel frozen - stuck - and can’t move forwards.

That’s procrastination rearing its ugly head. Ready for a breakthrough?

In the coaching work I do now with founders and business owners, I see mental health struggles day in and day out. Lack of sleep, financial worries, pressure of payroll, employee issues, loneliness are some of the common themes I hear most days and can contribute to anxiety, depression and burnout if not managed.

Founders, be honest: when was the last time you took a proper break?

Research shows 3 in 4 small business owners take less than 20 days off per year, far below the statutory entitlement.

With 46+ hour workweeks and under 5 hours of sleep a night, it's no wonder burnout is rife.

I know how hard it is to step away when your business is your baby, in the first 3 years of my business I took no time off (apart from Christmas) - boy did I learn the hard way.

Remember, your past experiences do not define your future success. You have the power to create the business you've always wanted, but it requires letting go of limiting beliefs and embracing new opportunities.

Don't let fear of repeating past mistakes keep you stuck.

For me I know the signs, and I know how to quickly course correct. A weekend of downtime, a refocus on my values and goals, time in nature, some exercise last night and asking a trusted friend to hold me to account - I feel like myself again today.However it has taken me years to get to this point of self awareness and knowing what to do to get back on track.Don't be afraid to ask for help if you are feeling burnt out, or on the path to losing yourself.

If you're a business owner feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward, know that you're not alone. With the right support, strategy, and mindset, it's possible to overcome even the most challenging obstacles and build a business that truly reflects your values and goals.

It's crucial to recognise that imposter syndrome is not an insurmountable obstacle. By understanding its commonality among high-achievers and developing strategies to combat it, you can begin to overcome these self-limiting beliefs and step into your full potential as a confident, capable business owner.