About Me

Hi! I’m Cath

WHOLEHEARTED SUCCESS COACH

Before I introduce myself, let me explain what “Wholehearted Success” means to me.

For far too long, the world has relied on a definition of success defined by WEALTH, POWER and STATUS. It’s certainly allowed humanity to push the boundaries, explore new ideas and build vast empires. But it has also come at a cost.

Our planet has been treated as a resource to be exploited for our own gain. We’ve created a society that is vastly unequal, causing great suffering for many of our fellow human beings and our delicate eco-systems. Our lives have become so rushed and over-scheduled we’re losing touch with each other, as well as the deepest parts of ourselves and our place in the universe.

For the past 14+ years as a small business owner I have had the incredible privilege to create a life I love – to only work school hours, be actively involved in community projects, take care of my family and prioritise my wellbeing – and support other small business owners to do the same.

However, I recognise it’s a privilege that’s out of reach for most people. Which means we need to make work WORK!

After the challenges of the previous few years, I feel it is now time to reimagine new ways of working and living, so that we can ALL enjoy a more “wholehearted” version of success.

Here’s what I believe that looks like:

PURPOSE – having a deep sense of meaning and fulfilment that comes from bringing together our skills, passions and ideas to solve the problems of the world, while being respected, valued and rewarded appropriately for our efforts.

PROSPERITY – enjoying a high quality of life, in a spirit of gratitude contentment and wellbeing, that is sustainable long-term – and helping others who are not so fortunate to live well too.

CONNECTION – working collaboratively and sharing our skills, ideas and knowledge openly for the good of all, while building strong relationships with our families, friends, colleagues and the wider community.

JOY – living a full, vibrant life with a sense of fun and hope for a bright future.

Are you ready to join me?

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My Story in a nutshell.

I’m your typical over-achiever!

For most of my life, I took great pride in achieving whatever I set my mind to – getting good marks at school, being accepted into the top design course, gaining a black belt in Taekwondo, travelling the world, having a successful career, living a dream life in the beautiful Dandenong ranges – complete with views and a forest for a backyard. Did I mention chickens?

Failure simply wasn’t an option.

Then came my first business adventure. I started my stationery business, Leaf, on the back of a GFC redundancy. My son had just turned 3 and I was exhausted from trying to balance my busy corporate marketing job, studying part-time to complete an MBA and attempting to be the best wife and mum I could be in the limited time available. Being paid to leave and start a business felt like I was being handed my dreams on a silver-platter.

Unfortunately, things didn’t go to plan, and 4 years later I was faced with a difficult choice… do I go back into the mainstream workforce or do I start again? When I looked at my life, EVERYTHING (apart from the money) had been a huge success. I was happier, healthier and far less stressed than I had ever been. It was a huge epiphany!

Going back to my roots as a graphic designer and marketing professional, I started Wholehearted Marketing. In addition to designing brands and building websites, I supported my clients with their business strategy and marketing, facilitated training workshops and qualified as a Life Coach. I nurtured my curiosity and passion for neuroscience and positive psychology, personal wellbeing, creativity and innovation, environmental and social responsibility, education and women’s empowerment. I’ve written a bit and read a LOT!

Which brings me here…

Using the principles of “wholehearted success” as a foundation, I believe that by bringing a greater sense of humanity and community back into our lives – at work and beyond – we can reshape our world into one that is more sustainable, loving, kind and connected.

Together we can be the change!

It’s important to Walk the Talk

While I don’t claim to be perfect, I do try to make my own little difference in the world by:

Shopping and dining at small, local businesses, and choosing Australian (preferably Australian-made), ethically and sustainably produced products wherever I can. I try to choose quality items that last. For my photos I was proud to be wearing two very pretty tops by Byron Bay designer, Harriet Jane Designs, sourced from my local boutique From Dust (formerly Dalcheri) in Sassafras. Most of my jewellery was created by local artisans.
I also try to support other local women in business when I do need services for my business. A big shout out to Fi Mims for the wonderful photography, as well as Lisa Rathgen for hair and make-up and The Summer House in Torquay for the most divine location!
Eating organic (well, mostly), buying recycled products where possible and minimising waste in both the business and our household.
Being actively engaged in my local community and the wider community of women entrepreneurs. I currently facilitate a women’s business networking group in Kallista, support a lovely young girl through the Raise Foundation‘s youth mentoring program, and ran the environment club at our local primary school for several years.
Financially supporting causes I believe in through my business… at the moment these are Room to Read and AIME Mentoring. Both these organisations help kids to achieve their full potential through education. It’s not a large donation for now, but as my business grows, so will my monthly contribution. Every little bit helps!

I’ll be sharing other tips and ideas on how to live and work more ethically and sustainably from time to time on my blog.