Last week, at a networking event, I stood up in front of a crowded room and announced for the first time ‘I’m Rosey and I’m a writer!’ – which felt both preposterous and wonderful at the same time! A year ago, languishing in furlough, I would never have dreamt that I’d be starting my own business, let alone that I could make a living doing something I love.

I was planning to start ‘Rosey Writes’ in the New Year, but life is full of twists and turns and I find myself in the unexpected and incredibly fortunate position of having almost too much work already! Not one to turn down a project, I’m having to juggle a full work diary to fit in all the things I promised myself I’d do as a freelancer – including taking time for me, with pilates, tennis and dog walks all important parts of my working week. This is all about a good work-life balance after all!

So what have I learnt about setting up a business? There’s never a ‘right time’ to launch – just do it! Don’t wait for your website to be perfect or your blog exceptionally witty. And don’t let the fear of making mistakes stop you. Imposter syndrome is a real phenomenon and can happen to anyone, so push any negative thoughts from your mind. The good thing is, if you’re feeling it you’ve probably reached outside your comfort zone. It’s really brave to take a leap so celebrate your courage, take a deep breath and learn to trust your abilities.

For me, the support I’ve had from family, friends and all my lovely networking comrades has been so encouraging and heartening; I can actually feel everyone willing me on!

So here I am, sitting at my desk, launching my unexpected business and trying to avoid distractions. (And there are a LOT of distractions when you’re working from home. I mean, Frasier is on EVERY morning, there’s an awesome view from my office window and I find I want to eat every time I pass the kitchen – and I seem to find a reason to pop by quite often).

Wish me luck as I set off on this new chapter. And let me know if I can help you in anyway. As the bumper sticker says, “One life, Live it”.