It’s estimated that we spend around 90,000 hours at work during our adult lives. That’s a lot of time. So, it’s important we’re happy in what we do for a living whether that’s in an employed or freelance role, or running your own business.

This month’s inspiring businesswomen is Jenny Holloday, The Career Happiness coach who supports those who are employed, freelance, orbusiness owners, to find happiness and career fulfilment. Read on to find about the best piece of career advice she’s been given, who her dream client is and whether she prefers tea or coffee.

What was your first job? Did you enjoy it?

My very first job was babysitting (which I liked when the people I babysat for had good snacks!), but my first paid media job was as a junior reporter on a local paper in Guildford, Surrey. I adored it. It was fun, a classic ‘no two days are the same’ type job. Always out in the car going to interview someone, or to court or a council meeting.

I loved seeing my stories in print and the competition to ‘win’ the front page vs the other reporters. We had such a laugh, always going out together, and there was strong teamwork.

What do you do now?

I’m a coach and journalist – people often ask how the time is split, and the honest answer is it depends on demand. If I have a lot of coaching clients I send out fewer pitches, and vice versa. The journalism was something I trained in (I trained before that first job and then during that job, to get a second higher qualification). My degree was actually in French, so in that respect I didn’t train to do anything that I do now!

You can find out more about my work on my website, or come and say hello on LinkedIn.

How do your services help small business owners?

I work with a lot of small business owners to help them grow in confidence around their business goals. For many, it’s about being more ‘out there’ on social media or LinkedIn. Some are keen to grow their client base and want to talk about how to do that, as well as perhaps going over plans for a new launch or product. Confidence is the common denominator for all my clients. 

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve been given? How did it help you?

Focus on what you can control. This was advice from my husband and also a fellow coach – she said to really focus on your goal, your purpose. It’s something I come back to time and time again. It helps me reset and also see what’s important.

If you could give your 20-year-old self one piece of career advice, what would it be?

It won’t always be perfect – but keep trying. I longed so hard to write for a living and had big dreams of being a columnist and author, which I achieved! But I think I was impatient – I still am! Expecting things to be perfect all the time just wastes your energy.

Which do you prefer, tea or coffee? Beach or pool? Seaside or countryside?

Tea! I gave up coffee 18 months ago. Pool 100% I am a total pool girl. I prefer the countryside for living (I’m in the Cotswolds), but I love a visit to the beach. We go to the Isle of Wight which I love and went to the north coast of Scotland on honeymoon. Our dogs love the beach! But I adore my local lido in Chipping Norton.

What’s your dream job or client?

Someone who is ready to make changes – who has that ‘let’s do this!’ energy. I enjoy working with freelancers because it’s a joy to see them embrace the ick of taking risks and to know that their decisions build their business as well as their self esteem. Brand-wise, I’d like to write for or collaborate with LinkedIn and also see my byline in The Times.

Head to the SEO and Copywriting Tips section to read about other inspiring businesswomen.