Starting a business isn’t easy, but the hard work is absolutely worth it and I’ve found it incredibly rewarding as it has given me more control over my own life, something which I didn’t feel like I previously had enough of.
Up until the start of 2023, I worked for a well-known car manufacturing brand. Although my passion for the automotive industry led me to this career path, I found that it didn’t live up to my expectations.
The constant stress within the role in addition to the long hours and chaotic shift patterns became source of strain on my mental health. I wasn’t alone in this either and according to the Mental Health Foundation 14.7% of people experience mental health problems in the work place.
I knew something had to change and I needed to take action so that I had a good work-life balance and ultimately enjoyed what I was doing on a daily basis. This led to the creation of TGS Detailing.
I took the decision to start my car detailing & valeting business in the spring of 2023 and haven’t looked back. Here’s how starting this business improved my mental health.
There’s no denying that being a business owner can be stressful. However, I’ve found that it’s actually a very different kind of stress to what I had previously experienced. The difference being that I’m in control of it.
When I previously worked as an employee in the car manufacturing industry, my routine was completely disorganised and there was very little I could do to stay in sync when my life was being dictated by disruptive shift patterns.
When I started TGS Detailing I finally got the chance to regain control and be in charge of my routine. I can decide when I need a break and when I want to ramp up the intensity. It also means I have more flexibility over my work schedule which feels very freeing.
Having my own business means I’m able to get up every day and work for my own targets and ambitions, rather than my bosses. Although I still work long hours like I used to, I now thrive on it because it gets me closer to my goals.
I’m no longer spending my days off dreading going into work the next day, or waking up with that sickening feeling hoping the day goes quickly. Instead, I’m excited to get up every morning and work on my own business.
Being a business owner throws up challenges every single day. I’ve actually found that one of the most enjoyable parts of my work now is coming up with solutions and feeling accomplished. Being completely in charge of my own income rather that relying on a steady pay check every month was definitely something that scared me in the beginning. However, it also gives me the drive to grow my business and work hard.
Since starting TGS Detailing I have expanded my service list to include paint correction and ceramic coatings, completed a Gtechniq training course, and invested in a mobile detailing van. I am always looking to learn and improve my skills which keeps me motivated.
I have been interested in cars from an early age and frequently go to local car meets to chat to other people who are passionate about the automotive industry. This led me into the world of detailing where I started working on my own car and my friend’s and family’s vehicles to build up my skills.
Soon I realised that detailing was a real passion of mine as not only do I find the process to be very therapeutic, but the finished result is really satisfying. Starting TGS Detailing allowed me to turn something that I enjoyed doing in my spare time into a full-time business which gives me the opportunity to enjoy do what I enjoy every day.
Doing a great job and hearing excellent feedback from my customers is also incredibly rewarding and motivating. I’ve been able to work on some amazing cars and meet plenty of fantastic people since starting TGS Detailing.
I’m very thankful to my clients who have taken the time to leave glowing reviews on Facebook and Google, but I also love the handover process where I get to show the client the transformation on their vehicle. Comments like “it looks better than new!” absolutely make my day and it’s one of my favourite parts of the job.
I know how important looking after your mental health is, and how it can be difficult to talk about it and find help. This is why I plan to partner with mental health charities and fundraise to increase awareness and help other people who are struggling get the support they need.
Stay tuned into my Facebook page and Instagram for updates
“Mental health at work: statistics” by the Mental Health Foundation
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/mental-health-work-statistics
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