Embracing the Fear

So this happened!……

Yesterday, I felt so privileged to be asked on stage at the British Franchise Association Legalities and Ethics seminar, to talk about “The Wonders of Hindsight.”

You may not know this, but back in 2018, I became Franchisor of Caterpillar Music, after being a Franchisee for 12 years and public speaking was one of my great fears as a fairly new Franchisor.

I will never forget the all-consuming, uncomfortable feeling of imposter syndrome that I felt, right at the start of my Franchisor journey, a few years ago, when attending my very first Children’s Activities event. Despite it being a friendly, safe space, I had felt completely out of my comfort zone.

One of my goals for this year was realised yesterday as I rose to the challenge, ran towards the fear and joined a panel of lawyers and a fellow Franchisor on stage.

The fear was replaced by an immense feeling of pride at being able to represent our network. I discussed how I, as their Leader, have taken steps to improve communication, resulting in a closer team of empowered franchisees, who know one another and feel comfortable reaching out to each other as well as our Head Office team. Their problems and concerns are always addressed and taken seriously as we support them to be the best business owners they can be. Their thoughts and often incredible ideas are embraced and, if possible, taken forward for the benefit of everyone in the network.

Overcoming my own personal hurdle yesterday, I hope, will only help inspire my franchisees to face their own challenges and succeed.