Words That Changed My Life
The Words That Stay With You
"Don't come to me with problems—come to me with solutions."
When my boss first said those words, they rewired how I approached challenges. Years later, I still carry them with me.
It's fascinating how certain pieces of advice stick, even when their full meaning doesn’t sink in right away. Looking back, I can see how those words shaped my approach to life, business, and leadership. It’s almost like our brains quietly store these lessons, waiting for the right moment to resurface.
Early in my career, I had a habit of regularly updating my boss on the businesses I was working on and sharing the challenges we were facing. Until one day, as I walked into his office, he stopped me:
“Kate, don’t come to me with your problems; come to me with your solutions.”
I can still feel the weight of those words. From that moment on, I never entered his office again without first thinking through a solution. That shift in mindset changed how I lead, collaborate, and make decisions—less reactive, more intentional.
Why It Matters
Words are powerful, often more so than we realize. A passing comment or a remark made during a stressful moment can stay with us for years. I’ve come to understand that it’s not just the words we remember, but also the ones we choose to use—or not use.
For example, I’ve started to avoid the word “busy.” It’s a lazy placeholder, an easy answer when we don’t take the time to reflect on what we really mean. Instead, I try to be intentional—am I fulfilled, overwhelmed, energized? The words we use shape our perspective, our brand, and how others perceive us.
In this video, I dive into how the words we choose shape our lives and brands. Have a watch:
The Ripple Effect of a Few Words
Sometimes, it’s not just one phrase but a recurring idea that has a profound impact. One of my mum’s favorite expressions has always been:
"Sleep is the biggest healer!"
Did I pay attention to this in my twenties? Not really. But now, as a business owner, I see the truth in it. Rest fuels clarity. And clarity fuels better decision-making, sharper thinking, and, ultimately, stronger creative output.
Words don’t just shape individuals—they shape brands, too. The right words can sharpen a company’s message, making it unmistakable and memorable. And just like in life, it’s often the simplest, most intentional phrases that leave the biggest impact.
Me and my mum.
The Words That Show Up When You Most Need Them
What fascinates me most are the words that show up exactly when we need them. Some, like my mum’s advice, have been with me since childhood. Others, like my boss’s challenge, arrived at pivotal moments.
Then there are the unexpected ones. Like the time I was feeling stuck in my business—when a key client didn’t renew, and doubt started creeping in. At that precise moment, I picked up my phone and saw a post from a female business leader I admire. It read:
"You never know what’s around the corner."
Those words were a lifeline, a reminder to stay curious, to keep going even when the path isn’t clear. They reaffirmed what I already knew but needed to hear again: the best ideas, the right clients, the next big opportunity—it’s all ahead.
Pass It On
Words shape us. They push us forward, hold us back, and define our paths. They also define brands—what they stand for, how they connect, and the impression they leave behind.
What’s one piece of advice that’s stuck with you through the years? I’d love to hear your stories.
If you’re searching for the right words to define your brand, this might be the conversation you need.
P.S. One of my all-time favourite phrases to share: 'When someone inspires you, don’t wait to tell them. Tomorrow is never promised.'
