They say that adversity introduces us to our true selves, and honey, I never knew how true that was until my husband walked out the door, leaving me and our daughter stranded in a foreign country with little more than courage in our pockets and hope in our hearts. But let’s be real—he did me the biggest favour of my life.
Abandonment is a loaded word. It conjures images of loss, betrayal, and shattered dreams. And yes, there was heartbreak, anger, and countless sleepless nights wondering, “Why me?” But this isn’t a sob story; it’s a tale of reinvention, badassery, and embracing my inner lioness.
My ex-husband expected me to fit a certain mould: stay-at-home mum, cheerleader, and quiet supporter. The minute I got a job and dared to claim my independence, he bolted, declaring his disdain for my ambitions. His words were meant to sting but ignited a fire in me instead. He couldn’t comprehend that I wasn’t just built to survive—I was built to thrive.
Lesson one: Losing him didn’t break me. It built me. I dusted myself off, returned to Australia, and faced over 40 job rejections. I was fighting to build a life not just for me but for my daughter. Abby was my “why,” nothing can hold you back when your purpose is that strong. With every rejection, I got more determined, more resilient, and yes—more sassy. The patriarchy wasn’t ready for what was coming.
Lesson two: Abandonment led me to the biggest love of my life—myself. I learned to embrace my company, value my dreams, and make space for growth. I became unapologetically me. When people doubted me, I laughed. When they said I was too much, I knew I was exactly enough. And when did they expect me to shrink? I roared.
Lesson three: Adversity breeds vision. It took guts and grit, but I eventually launched LeadershipHQ, a company that didn’t just change my life but the lives of thousands of leaders around the world. I manifested this business from scratch, turning rejection and self-doubt into purpose and passion. I discovered that my calling wasn’t just to survive but to help others lead with courage, kindness, and bold authenticity.
And let’s not forget the biggest plot twist: My daughter, Abby, blossomed in ways I never imagined. Her courage and determination inspire me daily. The challenges she witnessed taught her that women are powerhouses and she is the future. Watching her shine made every tear and sleepless night worth it.
So, to the man who thought he was breaking me when he left: You didn’t just set me free—you launched me into greatness. Thank you for underestimating me. Thank you for allowing me to become my hero. Thank you for leaving so I could show the world how powerful a mother’s love and a woman’s strength can be.
In the end, I’m living proof that abandonment can be a beginning, not an end. My roar is louder than ever, and it echoes with purpose, joy, and the sass of a woman just getting started.
Table of Contents:
- Here’s how I turned abandonment into my biggest comeback, one bold, determined step at a time:
- 1. I Got Real About My Why
- 2. I Refused to Play Small
- 3. I Bet on Myself—Over and Over
- 4. I Built a Business From Scratch
- 5. I Got Creative and Sassy With My Approach
- 6. I Invested in Community and Connections
- 7. I Learned to Laugh at the Ridiculous
- 8. I Let My Strength Inspire My Daughter
- 9. I Told My Story to Help Others Tell Theirs
Here’s how I turned abandonment into my biggest comeback, one bold, determined step at a time:
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1. I Got Real About My Why
When I was left stranded, I didn’t have the luxury of sitting around feeling sorry for myself (although, let’s be honest, I had my moments!). My daughter, Abby, was my driving force. Every tear I shed became fuel to create a better future for both of us. Having a powerful purpose keeps you moving forward, even on the days you feel like giving up.
2. I Refused to Play Small
Moving back to Australia, I faced rejection after rejection. Over 40 companies said “no” to me. They didn’t believe in my potential, but I was too determined to quit. Instead of shrinking, I asked myself, “What if I did the unthinkable?” I dreamed bigger. I kept hustling, showing up, and saying “yes” to opportunities that made my heart race.
3. I Bet on Myself—Over and Over
I could have let self-doubt win, but I bet on myself instead. I became my own biggest advocate, cheerleader, and, yes, sometimes even my bossy coach. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, took the risks no one else was willing to take, and invested in my growth. When you bet on yourself, you stop waiting for permission to do great things.
4. I Built a Business From Scratch
LeadershipHQ wasn’t a dream—it was a necessity. I knew I could teach leadership, but more than that, I could inspire people to lead with kindness, courage, and authenticity. I manifested this business step by step, starting with zero resources but an abundance of grit. I built a company on sheer determination and a vision bigger than myself.
5. I Got Creative and Sassy With My Approach
Who says leaders can’t be bold and sassy? I rejected the idea that professionalism had to be boring. I told my story, shared my struggles, and connected with people in a real and empowering way. I embraced being “too much,” knowing my authenticity would inspire others to lead unapologetically.
6. I Invested in Community and Connections
Being abandoned taught me how to value and nurture real connections. I started mentoring, empowering, and uplifting other women because I knew what it was like to be down and out. I believed in paying it forward, building a tribe of leaders who are now changing the world in their own right. The ripple effect is real.
7. I Learned to Laugh at the Ridiculous
When the going got tough, I found humour in the madness. It helped me cope, it helped me rise, and it made me resilient. Laughter became my secret weapon, reminding me that even in the darkest times, a spark of joy can light the way forward.
8. I Let My Strength Inspire My Daughter
Everything I did was for Abby, but along the way, I realized something incredible: My daughter saw me as a warrior, and she grew into a force of her own. I’ve watched her overcome her obstacles with fierce courage, and it’s been the greatest gift of all. Seeing her thrive made every struggle worthwhile.
9. I Told My Story to Help Others Tell Theirs
When I finally embraced my voice, I realized that my story had the power to inspire. I started sharing it—not just the pretty, polished parts but the raw, real, “I can’t believe I survived that” moments. I’ve dedicated my life to uplifting others, especially women, and ensuring they know they are enough. We’re all the heroes of our own stories, and I want everyone to see their potential.
That’s how I did it: with courage, an unbreakable will, and a touch of sass that made the journey one hell of a ride. Want to take a page from my book and do the same? Remember, if I can do it, so can you.
