ABG Editorial Team
Hey there, dreamers, achievers, and go-getters! Let’s dive into the remarkable journey of Melanie Perkins, the powerhouse behind Canva. Melanie didn’t just build a successful business; she revolutionised an entire industry and became an inspiration for women worldwide. So, grab your favourite bevvy, and let’s explore three invaluable lessons we can learn from her journey.
Lesson 1: Dream Big, Start Small, Act Now
Melanie Perkins didn’t wait for the perfect moment to start. She didn’t have all the resources or a detailed roadmap. She simply had a vision so grand that it fueled her passion and ignited her determination. She believed in the power of simplicity in making design accessible to everyone, everywhere.
So, what can we learn? Dream big, my friends. Let your imagination run wild. But don’t let the magnitude of your dreams overwhelm you. Divide them into manageable, achievable steps that you can take today. Remember, even the longest journey starts with a single step. So take that step. Start now, even if it’s small. Whether it’s sketching your business idea on a napkin or drafting your first email pitch—take action. Your dreams are waiting for you to bring them to life.
Lesson 2: Embrace Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Melanie Perkins faced countless obstacles on her journey—rejections, scepticism, and even a few failed ventures. But she didn’t let setbacks define her. Instead, she welcomed them as chances to learn and evolve. With every setback, she emerged stronger, more determined than ever to succeed.
So, my fellow female warriors, when life throws you curveballs, embrace them with open arms. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Instead, let it fuel your determination. Remember, resilience isn’t about avoiding failure but bouncing back stronger each time. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities, and never give up. Because the path to success is paved with resilience, perseverance, and unwavering faith in yourself.
Lesson 3: Build a Support System and Pay It Forward
Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other women with her back. Melanie Perkins understood the power of community and surrounded herself with mentors, advisors, and cheerleaders who believed in her vision. But she didn’t stop there. She paid it forward, lifting others as she climbed.
So, my dear trailblazers, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Seek out mentors who inspire you and who have walked the path you aspire to walk. Surround yourself with a tribe of like-minded individuals who will lift you up when you falter and celebrate your victories as if they were their own. And remember, success is sweeter when shared. So, pay it forward. Mentor the next generation of women leaders, support their dreams, and let’s shatter every glass ceiling in our way together.
Melanie didn’t just build a business; she built a legacy. Her journey is a testament to the power of dreaming big, embracing resilience, and building a supportive community. So, my fellow dreamers, let’s channel our inner Melanie! Let’s dare to dream, persevere, and uplift each other. Because when women support women, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. The future is yours for the taking.
Here are three self-reflection questions and corresponding activities to help you incorporate Melanie Perkins’ strategies into your business:
- Dream Big, Start Small, Act Now: Self-Reflection Question: What is my boldest vision for my business, and what small, actionable steps can I take today to move closer to that vision?
Activity: Grab a journal and set aside some quiet time to visualise your ultimate business goals. Write down your most audacious dreams, no matter how far-fetched. Then, break each big goal down into smaller, achievable tasks. Choose one small action today and commit to completing it before the day ends. It could be reaching out to a potential client, drafting a proposal, or setting up a meeting with a mentor. Always keep in mind, every journey begins with a single step!
- Embrace Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Self-Reflection Question: How do I typically respond to setbacks or challenges in my business, and how can I cultivate a mindset of resilience like Melanie?
Activity: Take a moment to reflect on past obstacles or failures you’ve encountered in your business journey. Rather than dwelling on the negatives, concentrate on the lessons learned and the growth that stemmed from those experiences. Write down three strategies you can implement to build resilience in adversity. This could include practising gratitude, seeking support from your network, or reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Then, choose one strategy to implement this week and observe how it impacts your mindset and response to challenges.
- Build a Support System and Pay It Forward: Self-Reflection Question: Who are the key individuals in my professional network, and how can I strengthen those relationships to create a supportive community like Melanie?
Activity: List the people in your network who have been instrumental in your business journey—mentors, collaborators, peers, etc. Reach out to each person individually to express gratitude for their support and guidance. Consider scheduling a coffee date or virtual meeting to reconnect and discuss how you can continue to support each other moving forward. Additionally, consider ways to pay it forward by offering your time, expertise, or resources to help other entrepreneurs or aspiring professionals in your industry. Whether mentoring a newcomer, volunteering at a local business event, or sharing valuable insights on social media, find opportunities to give back to your community and uplift others.
Remember, self-reflection and intentional action are vital in incorporating these strategies into your business journey. Dream big, embrace resilience, and cultivate a supportive network to unlock your full potential and succeed in your endeavors, following in the footsteps of inspirational figures like Melanie Perkins.
