Meet the women in business
In celebration of International Women's day, we have interviewed a few of our many female business owners based around NZ. Harrisons Curtains & Blinds and Carpet & Hard Flooring business owners Kendall Morrell, Liz Satherley and Haley Lyall give you the inside scoop of what it is like to be a woman in business!
Kendall Morrell, Harrisons Curtains & Blinds
Local business owner Whanganui and Manawatu
Tell us a bit about yourself
I have a background in interior design and hospitality, I have a beautiful 4 year old boy and an amazing hubbie!
Why did you want to be your own boss?
I thoroughly enjoy being able to have control over my own business and decisions on a daily baisis. I love the flexibility of running my own schedule.
What motivates you to be a woman in business?
Usually, when an opportunity presents itself to me, I like to jump in and give it a go. I don't like having any 'what if's' hanging over my head, life is short. Having belief in myself and being confident keeps me motivated - I love what I do.
How do you balance your work and personal life?
Making time to hang out with my family and being present. Putting aside time for me. DOING LESS. That sounds strange coming from a business owner, but I try not to over commit myself. I try to have less structured things planned in life, so I have less to show up for, therefore I can give more of myself to the things and people that are important to me. I think we are so conditioned to do the opposite. By allowing myself to do less makes me a better business owner/mum/wife/friend, because I'm healthier, happier and more focused.
How do you define success?
Waking up each morning happy and content, mindset is everything!
Liz Satherley, Harrisons Carpet & Hard Flooring
Local business owner Christchurch
Tell us a bit about yourself
I have a passion for interior design and love seeing the transformation that new flooring brings.
My background is in sales, in retail, running bedding departments with Harvey Norman in Auckland and Christchurch and also selling businesses.
I have a grown-up family and the best time of the year is Christmas when we all get together.
Why did you want to be your own boss?
It feels good being the author of my own destiny
What motivates you to be a woman in business?
I like the interaction with clients and all aspects of running a business
How do you balance your work and personal life?
Haha, that's a work in progress.
How do you define success?
Leaving people happier than when you first meet them.
Haley Lyall Harrisons Curtains & Blinds
Local business owner Southland
Tell us a bit about yourself
I would say I am a creative and dependable person. I take my work seriously, although I do love to have a good laugh!
Why did you want to be your own boss?
A flexible work schedule is ideal for me. Also being able to work from home while also being able to visit clients with the Harrisons van. This business concept enables me to express my creativity and allow others to explore theirs!
What motivates you to be a woman in business?
Having the empowerment and freedom to work on what I love to do every day.
How do you balance your work and personal life?
Don't strive for the perfect schedule; strive for a realistic one. Some days, you might focus more on work, while other days you might have more time and energy to pursue your hobbies or spend time with your loved ones.
Balance is achieved over time, not each day!
How do you define success?
Success for me will always be about making a difference in other people’s lives. Leaving work each day satisfied that I’ve learned something new or useful, this is success to me!
Get in touch with us today
Call us on 0800 278 008
or head over to our 'contact us' page here
