Here I talk about how the adversity faced by my ancestors in rural Ireland has shaped my success.
The month of March sees the celebration of the feast of St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Though St Patrick’s day today is often a mêlée of the tricolour, leprechaun hats and pints of Guinness, I often find my mind going back to my roots, to my homeland of County Down, and I reflect on the stories of my ancestors—hardworking, resilient, and unwavering in the face of adversity. My Irish roots run deep, woven into a tapestry of struggle, perseverance, and a firm belief in the value of hard work.
This legacy of “not giving up” has been passed down through generations, instilling in me the belief that success is not simply given—it is earned. Their sacrifices have taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones, with each hardship faced an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser.
The journey of my ancestors has shaped not only my identity but also my passion for success and my dedication to helping others. It has also instilled in me the discipline to not give up; I owe it to them to succeed.
Our family farm has been in the family for centuries, and I was raised on the stories of yesteryear. The hunger and fear of not knowing where your next meal was coming from was passed down through the generations, and it was a fear I inherited, as I was continuously reminded to clear my plate. As a child, I didn’t understand the sheer scale of the hardships they’d faced - in recent history too - as my Nan often gave up her meals to ensure my mum had food in her belly. I thought when I grew up, I’d do things differently.
A Currency of Cheese
Growing up, I heard countless stories of my grandparents and great-grandparents who worked from dawn until dusk, never once complaining; they always kept going. My grandad, Barney, tired from his back-breaking graft, was often paid not in money, but in blocks of cheese; cheese that would be used to feed the hungry mouths in the family. But they didn’t give up. They built their dreams (and their homes) with their hands, teaching their children the value of perseverance and integrity. That mindset was instilled in me from an early age—if you want something, you work for it. If you face a difficult time, you find a solution.
This work ethic has fuelled my own journey. Throughout my life, I have carried the lessons of my ancestors with me. They have inspired me to push beyond limits, to embrace challenges, and to never take success for granted. And above all? They’ve given me the fire in my heart to not let them down. I owe it to them to do my best, and to commit to being the best version of myself.
Paying It Forward: The Importance of Mentorship
Success is not solely an individual achievement. If you know me, you’ll know I’m no stranger to declaring that I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the support and guidance I’ve received throughout my life from some incredible people. I’ve been mentored by people who have given me their time and shared their experiences without ever asking for anything in return.
As my own business career has evolved, it is now my focus to help others navigate their own paths to success. Whether through mentorship, guidance, or simply sharing my story, I am committed to helping others.
By offering support, wisdom, and encouragement, we can all encourage each other on our journeys to long-lasting success. Just as my ancestors’ hard work has shaped me, I hope to inspire and empower those who want it, to persevere and achieve their dreams.
Mentorship
I encourage you to look back at your own roots. What stories of strength and triumph have shaped your journey? How can you use those lessons to inspire you and help you navigate your future success?
If you are ready to take your next steps in business and need clear guidance and a fresh perspective from someone not afraid to challenge your way of thinking, then contact me today to find out more about my mentorship programmes.
