In maintaining my own personal resilience, the number-one thing that helps me is supporting other people in my network by getting involved in things and reaching out. 

When I’m struggling, I have learned I am sometimes not very good at reaching out to people. But the more people you speak with in this industry, the more you’ll find them repaying the favour when you’re feeling less resilient.

Everything is a balancing act. The past six months have been tough for me at times – I have three children of varying ages, an online business and in-store management to deal with. But the best thing is to keep communicating with your peers – and you don’t have to see them as competitors, either.

Women in Convenience: Meet the ambassadors

In this industry, and through Women in Convenience, I’ve learned a support system is so important and I’ve built that up. I can pick up the phone to any of the girls in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland and they’ll be there for me. That’s important for your own personal resilience.

Signing myself up to forums so I’m always learning and bringing the best activations into store has been key with building up my resilience, too. Tiny things can set you over the edge sometimes, or the day-to-day issues of invoices and staff illnesses. If you reach out to someone, they can make sure you’re alright. It makes you a stronger person in this business.