Anne Iarchy, Weight Loss & Healthy Lifestyle Coach at Anne Iarchy Coaching

What first drew you to starting your business?

I was burnt out working in the corporate world. I had qualified a few years earlier as a personal trainer and decided to give it a go. See if what I thought I would enjoy doing, I really did. 12 years later and I haven't looked back!

Things definitely evolved over the years and I added a much more holistic system to leading a healthy lifestyle than just exercise, but initially, it was the start. Now I look at mindset, habits, nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress.

What is the best thing about being your own boss?

So many things are great, but the best thing would probably be that I decide what I want to achieve in my business and how I'm going to achieve it. As such, I can shape my days accordingly which gives me quite a lot of flexibility.

What's your advice to other women going into business?

Even if over the years in business your focus or direction might change, always, always, always have a plan before starting. And ideally, prepare that plan with a business coach so that you won't make as many mistakes as I did when I started.

What is your top tip for success?

Be open to opportunities, even if they look way out of your comfort zone. Say yes and you will figure a way to make it happen. Networking is a fantastic place to make real connections that will open those opportunities, but also help you make them a reality through the people you've met.

Tell us something about yourself we might not expect?

During the lockdown, I took on baking and now have that as a side business. You might wonder how baking and healthy lifestyle goes together. Well, I'm a big believer that bread and even a cake are part of life. Knowing what's in your food, with no artificial flavourings and ingredients or unneeded extra sugar means you can enjoy your cake and still be healthy.