Mums And Co

Member Profile: Clare Wood

What does your typical day look like?

I usually wake at 5am (I have a toddler ;-)), breakfast, 40-minute walk, meditation, housework then get stuck into business.  The working day seems to fly and I never get as much done as I want (sound familiar?), then time to pick up my little one and get him to bed.  Then we do dinner, watch a bit of TV (our favourite shows at the moment are Narcos, and First Dates), while I tap away at the laptop or my phone.

Tell us about your business?

I help women in business to get out of the overwhelm, get some solid plans in place, then I keep them accountable so they achieve their goals!

What projects are coming up next?

I’m super excited to be launching my New Year, New Beginning program in early Jan.  I spend a half-day with business owners helping them get in place some really clear plans for their business for the year 2017, including a Business Plan, a Marketing Plan, a Budget and an Action Plan to set them up for success for the year (I’m offering it at just $299).  I’m also planning a few collaborations with other businesses that I’m excited about - watch this space!

What do you thrive on? How do you maintain your motivation?

I thrive on exercise, good food, wine and love!  Like everyone, my motivation gets out of whack sometimes, so I just need to keep bringing myself back to my ‘why’- which is “to transform women’s businesses while maintaining a work-life balance to allow me to treasure moments with my family”. 

What has been one of your best business calls/decisions to date?

Hiring my own business coach!  Even though I have all the tools and know-how I need, it is hard to see the wood for the trees when it is your own business.  She helps me keep focused on the most important things.

What is something about running your business that you wish you had been told sooner?

One of my biggest mistakes was not spending any money on my business early on.  I was trying to run very lean, but now I know that making smart business investments can transform your business.

What would you like to see more of when it comes to helping women in small businesses succeed?

I think there is a lack of support/ facilities in terms of affordable childcare. Most small businesses take quite a while to get up and running and become profitable, and it is challenging to fund childcare while in this phase of your business.  I would love to see some government funded facilities where there are workstations, meeting rooms and fantastic childcare where mums can work, while being able to be near their children throughout the day. 

What is one facet of your field that you would like to see changed?

I feel that coaching is such a generic term and so many people claim to be “business coaches” without any experience running businesses or qualifications.  Unfortunately, there are many coaches who are not skilled in this area and charge through the nose for poor service and this reflects badly on the industry.  I would love to see some sort of regulation in my field.

What’s your approach on time management?

I don’t believe that anyone can consistently be doing well in all areas of their life.  Usually, something is doing well at the expense of another!  I think the best thing you can do is set time plans for the week and try your best to stick to them, but don’t beat yourself up if things get off track.  As a mum, things ALWAYS come up so you need to be flexible and remember what is important in life. 

How would you describe your family life?

My little family is me, hubby, our toddler and our pooch.  I would describe our family life as loving, affectionate, busy and crazy!  My husband and I both work from home so we spend lots of quality time together and wouldn’t change it for the world.

How would we find you spending your weekends?

I would love to say sunbaking on Bondi beach and having afternoon beers, but I’m afraid to say those days are long gone!  Weekends now usually consist of housework, chores, and working on our businesses.  We try and do a family activity each day too, like a trip to the park or go out for lunch.

Who do you admire the most?

My husband.  He is my absolute rock in life and in business.  He provides unwavering support and never questions my direction or capability.  He also has this incredible ability to stay calm in nearly every situation - from family dramas to catching huntsmen spiders in a jar and calmly moving them outside.

What’s the last book you read that you’d recommend to a friend?

Like a Queen by Constance Hall.  It’s one of the few books I’ve read recently that I was unable to put down.  I laughed, I cried and I nodded along.  All mums should read this book.

What are your beauty essentials?

I LOVE Doll Eyes mascara by Lancome and St Tropez fake tan.  My ultimate indulgence if I have a special event is having a blow dry- doesn’t happen very often these days...

What’s a service you can’t live without?

My VA is a little godsend.  I had a few before I found her and she is fantastic and makes the annoying little tasks disappear so I can focus on the big stuff.  Well worth the investment.

What supportive networks are you a part of?

Mums& Co for a start!  I have also made great contacts and friendships through LMBDW and Mums with Hustle. I believe communities are so important for support in this crazy world of business.