Sharley Neill is a mom of three, a blogger, an artist, an outdoor enthusiast, and has been in business for over 10 years as a solopreneur. Never one to sit still, she is already her eyes on the next couple ventures of 2022….
Q. When you first started your career, how did you know you were ready and what made you start?
My career really started out of necessity. My marriage of 10 years had ended unexpectedly, and with a young son at home and no formal education to fall back on, I had to figure it out, and figure it out fast! We were about to make the eight hour move from Prince George, BC to Metro Vancouver, and ideally, I wanted a job that offered weekends and evenings off, as well as flexibility during the week. I referred to my years of hotel training and began my own home cleaning business.
Q. What or who has been your greatest influence in business?
The first people I ever knew in business were my parents, and as I’ve quickly learned, they made it look a lot easier than it really is! With each new step I take, I’m learning to develop thicker skin. These days it’s the art of hiring and firing of staff, and not taking it personally when it doesn’t work out. Even after all these years I still don’t have all the answers, but I’m fortunate enough to be able to refer to a long list of books, a few blogs, and several successful friends.
Q. Where do you see yourself in five years? How do you envision your future?
I don’t ever see myself leaving the business world behind. I love being my own boss! In January of 2022 I finally got down to business and developed my own brand. The time had finally come to merge my many business hats into one. My next plan will be to market and develop that. I’m excited to see what happens. Ok, maybe a little terrified…
Q. What is your favourite thing about what you do in your career and why?
One of my favorite things about being in business is you never know what the next day will bring (not forgetting my amazing clients of course!). I have customers from all over the world. Different ethnicities, experiences and careers. The stories I hear are inspiring, and the lessons I learn keep me humble. I’ve got to admit though, all the dogs I get visit each day are a pretty close second!
Q. What keeps you motivated on a daily basis?
If there’s anything that keeps me going in this career, it’s a strong cup of coffee, financial independence, and the hope that I’m leading by example for my three children. By watching me put in the hard work, staying consistent, and not giving up, I want them to realize they too can achieve whatever they put their mind to. You don’t wish for it, you work for it!
Website: westendrenegade.ca
Facebook: Sharley Neill
Norwex: sharleycowan.norwex.biz
Instagram: west_end_renegade
