The moment I realised (again) why I love being self-employed.

This Tuesday was a very special day for our family — we were at my son's Masters Graduation at Glasgow University. He graduated in Pharmacology with Investigative Medicine, and it was one of those proud-parent moments where you try not to cry (again).

The hall was full of proud Mums and Dads, all beaming with that “we made it” smile… though truth be told, I feel proud of my kids every day, so I don’t necessarily need a ceremony to tell me that — but it is a brilliant excuse for a family meal out! 😂

As I watched the ceremony, led by academics in their robes, it took me right back to my own graduation. At 21, I was absolutely convinced I would be working in an accountancy firm for the rest of my career — before it had even begun!

And yet… here I am, on a completely different path.
What a journey it’s been.

Watching the academics walk in, I couldn’t help but think how wildly different our lives are. I genuinely couldn’t imagine — or want to imagine — their working week. And they’d probably look at the life of an entrepreneur and think we’re mad! (Fair, to be honest.)

I asked my son what all of his classmates are doing now, given they officially finished up around August. His answer?

“None of them have secured a job yet.”

Here are some of the most academically talented young people…
brilliant Degrees, Masters, incredible potential…
and not a foot in the door.

And it hit me again why I love being self-employed:
I don’t want anyone else to dictate my destiny.

Yes, at the moment it can feel a bit doom-and-gloom at times for small business owners…
costs rising, economic uncertainty, unfair budgets …

But remember this:
👉 You have control.
👉 You get to decide your direction.
👉 You can pivot, reinvent, improve, and grow — without waiting for someone to “give you a chance.”

That is power.
That is freedom.
And that’s what so many people wish they had.

I’d genuinely love to know (because I am a bit nosey)…

What did you think you were going to be when you left school, college, or University?
And what did you end up doing?

It’s always fascinating hearing the twists and turns people take in their careers — especially women in business.

And on a completely unrelated note…
If anyone happens to need an employee with a Masters in Pharmacology with Investigative Medicine, please let me know — I could really do with some dig money now! 😂

Have a wonderful weekend,
Speak soon,

Cherie