Turning Setbacks into Success: Lessons from My Journey

From Struggles to a New Beginning

It was 2012, and for nearly two years, I had been searching for a job. Despite my efforts, I remained unsuccessful, feeling increasingly depressed, frustrated, and desperate. I could not understand why this was happening. I had managed major projects for the Dutch Internal Affairs, run my own businesses, and achieved success in Auckland’s property development market. Even though I had taken time to raise my two children, surely, I had something valuable to offer in the New Zealand employment market.

After coming through a difficult divorce, I found myself in a financial bind, needing every dollar I could get my hands on to make ends meet. One day, I saw an advertisement in my local supermarket for a cleaning lady offering her services. Within a couple of weeks, the ad was gone. I figured she must have reached full capacity. At least she had advanced—should I be doing the same? The thought made me cringe, but the pressing reality of unpaid bills forced me to act. Reluctantly, I started writing my own advert.

The Choice That Changed Everything

I still remember my first few cleaning appointments. Walking into someone else’s home to clean left me feeling so low that tears welled up in my eyes. It was not the cleaning itself that upset me, but rather the overwhelming sense that I was not advancing in life. That is when I realized I had to make a choice: 1) stay in that dark place, feeling sorry for myself, or 2) become the cleaning lady I always wished I could hire for myself. I chose the latter, and that single decision sparked a massive shift in my mindset—and my circumstances.

From that point forward, I took charge. I became proactive in my role, leaving little notes for my clients with helpful reminders or suggestions for things I noticed around the house. Soon, notes began to appear in response: “Great, thank you, Lindy. Yes, that sounds like a plan!” It was not long before one client turned their home into an Airbnb, and I was promoted to property manager—earning significantly more money.

Just a few months later, I was offered a role at Auckland City Hospital. There, I worked my way up quickly to a comfortable position focused on enhancing patient experiences. Over the next ten years, I had the privilege of working with hundreds of people from all walks of life, gaining experience in management, governance, and mentoring.

Building Strength Through Life’s Challenges

Now, my new husband and I are fortunate to have a lovely cleaning lady helping us with our household. It is a full-circle moment that I deeply appreciate.

Throughout my life, I have faced situations where I had to rebuild from the ground up—whether it was launching a new business, starting fresh in a new country, re-entering the workforce after raising kids, or beginning again after a marriage breakdown. Each time, I have drawn strength from these experiences, finding empowerment even in the moments when I felt lost or defeated. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to create that same sense of empowerment and excitement without waiting to hit rock bottom.

I am sharing my story because I am deeply inspired by what drives us to make powerful decisions and create a vision that aligns with our authentic selves. It is this alignment that elevates our energy, fuelling us to achieve more, again and again.

Take the First Step Toward Transformation

If my story resonates with you, and you are ready to create transformative shifts in your life, do not wait. Together, we can uncover your potential and build a future that excites you. Click the link below to take the first step and connect with me:

Contact Lindy at MPowerMe Coaching