I think it’s safe to say that everyone has a chapter of their own life that they’d rather not read. Including me. I was 13 when my life got turned upside down, but looking back, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Here’s why.

At a time when everyone around me was finding themselves, I lost myself. At a time where one should still be carefree, I had to be careful. I only found myself again around the age of 19. What I had failed to see however, was the fact that I was a blank page again at 19. I could craft who I wanted to be, what I wanted to do at an age where others already had their ‘identity’ whether they liked it or not. I was able to see the world differently. I saw a world that was mine for the taking, not one where we all fitted a particular mould.

After failing school exams five years in a row, I was getting pretty fed up with life. I could revise until the cows came home, but my memory let me down. With a change of medication, I was back up and running aged 18. I did complete school, and went on to achieve a First at University. They say success follows failure, and for me it did. I was then hooked. I kept thinking, if I could achieve this, then what else could I achieve. That is why I sit here writing this as the founder of Lucy Rose Ltd.

It took a pretty horrible experience for me to get to where I am today, but it’s a path that I can look back on and feel pride. I don’t however want to be in the minority, so I challenge you ladies to sit up a little taller, to clench your fists and go for what you really want. Whether that be a promotion, a new job or taking the plunge to start your own venture. Life is challenging for a reason and you might just find out exactly who you are and why you are here. It’s time to rise up girls.

If you feel comfortable, I’d love to hear your stories via email or as a comment below, and if you connect with this, please share on your social media channels.

Lots of Love,

Em x