Podcast Summary: You Can! Inspiring Women In Business

Episode: From Adversity to Entrepreneurial Success: Cheryl Sharp’s Journey to Building a Thriving Accounting Business
Release Date: October 18, 2024
Host: Sarah Jolley-Jarvis
Guest: Cheryl Sharp

Introduction

In this compelling episode of You Can! Inspiring Women In Business, host Sarah Jolley-Jarvis sits down with Cheryl Sharp to explore her transformative journey from overcoming personal adversity to establishing a successful accounting business. Cheryl’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of seeking support during challenging times.

Cheryl’s Background and Early Challenges

Cheryl Sharp, a business owner, mother, and wife, began her entrepreneurial journey in 2014 under challenging circumstances. Shortly after leaving an abusive marriage, Cheryl sought to regain control over her life, focusing on achieving financial freedom and creating a stable environment for her children.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [00:21]:
"I set up my business in 2014 as an accountancy business... it was an opportunity for me to take some control back of my own life, to get some flexibility around the boys and to get some financial freedom and just freedom in general."

Navigating Initial Employment and Balancing Responsibilities

Upon leaving her marriage, Cheryl found herself without a job or financial independence. She secured a role at a counseling practice in London, which allowed her to set her own hours—a critical factor in balancing her professional and personal responsibilities.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [01:20]:
"I didn't actually have a job at all when I first left him, so I had absolutely no financial freedom... I was working five days a week but around the boys."

The demanding schedule took a significant toll on Cheryl, underscoring the challenges of maintaining work-life balance as a single mother.

The Catalyst for Entrepreneurship

A pivotal moment arose when Cheryl had to relocate, making her current job untenable due to the increased commute and lack of local support. This situation prompted her to explore alternative avenues, ultimately leading her to establish her own accounting business.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [04:11]:
"I was like, what can I do?... set up the business and do other people's bookkeeping and accounts and stuff. So I was like, okay, let's do it then."

Despite initial setbacks, such as the accounting practice not fulfilling their commitments, Cheryl remained resolute in her decision to pursue entrepreneurship.

Building the Business: Overcoming Networking Challenges

Cheryl faced significant hurdles in finding clients, especially as traditional networking events like breakfast clubs were not feasible for a single mother. She discovered Women in Business Network (Wibn), which provided more flexible networking opportunities tailored to her situation.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [07:09]:
"I have now started going back out and I'm starting to go to different groups... it's really nice to meet new people outside the area."

Transitioning to online networking became a strategic move for Cheryl, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when face-to-face interactions were limited.

The Role of Coaching and Support Systems

A crucial factor in Cheryl’s success was her decision to engage with a business and mindset coach. This relationship not only provided her with accountability but also significantly accelerated her business growth.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [17:10]:
"My coach has helped me to believe in myself, give me the confidence and self-worth and everything else that I needed to be able to go on and grow."

Cheryl emphasizes that without her coach, she would not have achieved the same level of success, highlighting the importance of mentorship and professional support.

Personal Growth and Evolving Business Vision

As Cheryl’s business expanded, so did her personal aspirations. She envisions creating a center to support women who have experienced abuse, offering them resources to rebuild their lives and businesses. This dream underscores Cheryl’s commitment to giving back and empowering others facing similar challenges.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [12:43]:
"I would love to have some kind of center where women who have been in abusive situations can come... learn how to run a business, they can learn how to be themselves again."

Empowering Others: Cheryl’s Mission

Cheryl’s mission extends beyond her personal success. She aims to inspire and assist other women in overcoming adversity and achieving their business goals. By sharing her story, she provides hope and practical guidance to those who may feel stuck in difficult circumstances.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [26:07]:
"If I can do it, then so can other people. It is possible. It is hard work... but if I can do it, anyone can."

Conclusion

Cheryl Sharp’s journey is a powerful narrative of resilience and empowerment. From leaving an abusive marriage with no financial security to building a thriving accounting business, Cheryl exemplifies how adversity can be transformed into opportunity with the right mindset and support systems. Her ongoing mission to help other women underscores the impact one individual can have in inspiring and facilitating positive change.

Notable Quote:
Cheryl Sharp [28:24]:
"What I want to show is it is possible and there is hope afterwards. You don't have to stay stuck and it's not."

Connect with Cheryl Sharp

For those inspired by Cheryl’s story and looking to connect or seek her guidance, you can find her on Instagram:

• Instagram: @iamsherylsharp
• LinkedIn: Cheryl Sharp

Thank you for tuning into this episode of You Can! Inspiring Women In Business. Stay motivated and keep striving towards your entrepreneurial dreams!