Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
I designed my business around my children and their needs. I knew for my business to grow I had to work within school hours, and around the times I had a bit of space…plus be realistic about what I could actually get done in one day.
Working with plants has taught me to take time, to not rush (I still struggle with this) and to accept, and work with, the ebbs and flows of motherhood. That taking a small step toward my goals every day will build into a much bigger thing and trusting that time and perseverance will pay off.
The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Probably too many to mention, but let’s just say that life has presented many big life-changing events, which has deepened my acceptance, understanding and empathy of what it is to be human, and that this ‘humanness’, this vulnerability and fragility, is what we all carry, and that we all need help, support and care.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The pros are the huge sense of achievement in being able to do this while raising 3 children, who each have quite specific needs, and that I have been able to transmute the hardship into a valuable resource for others; that I can be available for my children when they need me; that my children’s growth is alongside my own growth; that I am teaching my children my craft, which is something they will need in the future; that they have seen the small beginnings all the way through to where it is now; and that they have been an intrinsic part of its development, especially my eldest.
The cons are that the housework and all the ‘things’ that need to get done are right in front of me; that I have to be very self-motivated and focused; that I don’t have anyone else to bounce my ideas off; and that I have to be consistent and organised, without getting stressed and overwhelmed.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
My hope is to help mothers, children and families throughout Aotearoa by offering the pure-plant alternative to what is available at a pharmacy, and that my product range becomes the safe, effective and trusted go-to for the home.
My biggest dream is that my consultation work continues its growth so I can help as many people as possible regain their strength and vitality.
My clients have felt significant, long-lasting shifts in their health, and I am passionate about helping as many people as possible experience these benefits.
It is vital that we make changes in our lives to support our health, especially as we see the rise in infections and disease. We, and our families, can be resilient and healthy if we make the right choices in our lives.
To find out more, visit the Daphne’s Herbal website and join her supportive Facebook community.
