It’s been a whole year since I transitioned from leading an NGO to running my own small business, and what a year it’s been. Moving from a non-profit mindset to a for-profit model (while still serving the non-profit sector) has been a massive shift. It’s taken time, courage, and plenty of learning, but I’m starting to find my rhythm.
A friend recently sent me a message that really made me pause: “Starting a new business in a tough market takes courage and commitment – which you have in spades.” That encouragement meant the world. Most start-ups don’t make it past the first couple of years, so to be here, thriving after year one, feels like a win worth celebrating. Opportunities are blooming, and I’m feeling more confident in the path ahead.
As I reflect on this journey, here are twelve takeaways from my first year of being The NGO Coach. They’re in no particular order, but each has shaped how I’ve grown over the past 12 months.
1. Count the Small Wins
This year has been a whirlwind, starting with burnout and adjusting to the quiet of working solo. My vision was clear: helping NGOs rethink, recharge and build thriving nonprofits while prioritising their own wellbeing. While the path hasn’t been straightforward, here’s examples of some of the small wins I’m most proud of:
- Launching my website (with another 100+ tweaks!).
- Running a governance workshop for 30 inspiring women leaders.
- Signing my first coaching contract.
- Offering pro-bono coaching to give back.
Every small step matters. Instead of dwelling on what’s left to do, I’m learning to celebrate the progress I’ve made so far.
2. Prioritise Good Health
As an NGO leader, I often put my own health last, which left me running on empty. This year has been about flipping that script. I’ve prioritised getting natural light in the mornings, tracking my health goals, and resetting my routines. It’s a work in progress, but I’m learning that I can’t pour from an empty cup.
3. Sleep Is Non-Negotiable
Burnout wrecked my sleep as an NGO leader. I was constantly stuck in fight-or-flight mode, surviving on adrenaline. It’s been a tough pattern to break, but tools like a sleep tracker have helped me better understand my needs. I even tried a two-week “sleep reset” (hello, 12-hour nights!), which kickstarted a healthier routine. Next stop? A sleep specialist to dig even deeper.
4. Social Connection Matters
Working solo brought a sudden drop in daily social interaction. I’ve had to be intentional about building a new social rhythm—stepping into new spaces, meeting new people, and making time for loved ones. These connections have been critical for my mental and physical health.
5. Focus on What’s Working
What I thought my business would look like and where I’ve ended up are worlds apart. This year has been all about testing and learning—throwing ideas at the wall and seeing what sticks. It’s been humbling and enlightening to figure out what people really need (and are willing to pay for).
6. Roll with the Punches
Challenges came thick and fast—financial stress, tough personal losses, and the heartbreaking stories I’ve heard from NGO leaders across Aotearoa New Zealand. But through it all, I’ve held onto this mantra: keep going. Even on the hardest days, I made it through—and that’s something to celebrate.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
I’ve always been independent, but this year I leaned into support like never before. From webinars to YouTube tutorials, from my startup coach to my solopreneur network, I’ve embraced learning and collaboration. None of us can do this alone.
8. Embrace the AI Revolution
AI has been a game-changer. As a startup with limited resources, tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Canva, and Grammarly have helped me scale my work in ways I couldn’t have imagined. AI hasn’t replaced my human touch—it’s amplified what I can do.
9. Change Is Inevitable
The world around us changes daily, and trying to keep up can be overwhelming. I’ve learned to step away when needed—walking the dog, sitting in the sun, or making a cup of tea (peppermint & cacao husk tea anyone?). These moments remind me to focus on what really matters: my wellbeing, my loved ones, and the causes I care about.
10. Be Courageous
There were times this year when imposter syndrome hit hard. I doubted myself, questioned my direction, and felt unsure if I had what it takes. But with the encouragement of those around me (and a good laugh at my imposter syndrome), I pushed through. I’m so glad I did—because now, my business is start to take off.
11. Invest in Learning
The transition from for-purpose to for-profit meant tackling a steep learning curve: sales funnels, lead generation, scalability—you name it! There’s still a long way to go, but every bit of knowledge is building my confidence and capability.
12. Have Fun
Amidst all the hard work, I’ve finally starting prioritising fun. Fresh air, time with loved ones, and cuddles with my dog have reminded me why I’m doing this. Life doesn’t have to be all about ticking boxes—it’s also about making memories and finding happiness in the little things.
As I close out my first year, I feel incredibly proud of how far I’ve come. To everyone who has supported me along the way—ka rawe! Your encouragement has been a lifeline. I’m excited to see what year two brings and how The NGO Coach will continue to grow.
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