Ludwina's Blog: A heartfelt testimonial from a person I've never met...

Ludwina's Blog

A heartfelt testimonial from a person I've never met...

As I go into “active” retirement, I thought the first vote of thanks needs to go to you.

Even though we have not met; I have not attended any of your seminars/training sessions/information evenings, I have read your emails and attachments and gained considerable business savvy.    Why didn’t I attend any of your functions – because I am not a white collar worker and don’t have the fancy black dress/business suit and stockings that I perceived was necessary.     I am an Animal Masseuse, so wear shorts and t-shirts and work outdoors 90 percent of the time – and get covered in animal fur!!!     I am also way, way over 55 and this is my first business.   A Seniors Card awaits next year!

I started my business after completing the NEIS program, which I thoroughly recommend.   Then a friend in the USA gave me your website details and said I must participate/read.    I did read and gained insight into not only my business, but myself and what I wanted from my business and life.

In summary: In 2005 I was on NEIS and earning A$15,000 under the NEIS program, plus anything I earnt in my business that year.   NEIS said my business would not survive.    I was somewhat determined that it would give me and my pets a good living.    I read your emails and adapted them from white collar worker to hands on worker “attitude”.    I am a basic person – no frills or fancy – just a deep love of the animal kingdom.

Each year my business gained more and more clients because I ‘value added’ like you advised me to, e.g., taking their dog for a walk and coming home to rain and seeing washing on the line – I took the washing off the line and left it on the back door step or bringing in the rubbish bins (or putting them out if forgotten).   Small things like that.    Ludwina, you taught me to do that.

You once spoke/wrote about adding different streams to our business – I did – I added pet sitting; I added pet taxi service to my already well established dog walking and animal masseuse business.    I grew and grew, both personally and professionally.    My clients became my friends because they trusted me with their pets.   I attended family celebrations – 18th; 21st; engagements; weddings and now christenings because you taught me how to become a part of my client’s family (but not intruding) – I was like their animal’s nanny – they counted on me for advice about their pets.

In 2009, the fires struck and I lost my business and many, many clients (both human and animal).    I was saddened for I had lost what I had worked very hard for.      Again an email from you talking about starting afresh (and definitely not aimed towards the fire victims).   I felt your email was written personally to me.

Yes, I rebuilt and broadened my area of service – I travelled to where the need was.   Your emails gave me that encouragement.    However, I did need a lot of tissues (wish I had shares in Kleenex!!)

Two (2) years down the track and I have sold my businesses.    I once attended a Small Business function run by my local Council and it was by the Tax Department.   He asked who wanted to pay more tax and I put my hand up – the solitary hand in the hall.   I was intimidated.     I felt I had made a fool of myself.     I was the only “correct” person in that hall – to pay more tax, you have to be earning more money.   Ludwina, you have taught me how to earn more money; you have taught me how to honour my clients; you have taught me how to honour and respect myself and my business.

I sold my business for an amazing amount of money recently.   I enjoyed paying GST and filling in BASS statements; I enjoyed paying Provisional Tax and Accountants fees; thank you for that – you stepped me through the process of having a business; working in the business; being an employer in my own business. I remember your words in the email – “baby steps all the way”.    Now I have a great caravan and an even better car; am preparing to travel ‘a little bit here and a little there’; return home for a while; catch up with some clients and share the good times.

I can’t wait for the Seniors Card.

My heartfelt thanks for your guidance both business-wise and personal where you shared your health worries with us all.

Thank you, Ludwina, for being such a pivotal part of my business.

Warm Wishes:   Mary-Ann and my animals, Daisy and Darby

Posted by Ludwina Dautovic on 13th December, 2011 | Comments (2) | Trackbacks
Tags: testimonial, business coaching, women in business

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You never know the impact you have on people

You never know the impact you have on people. Your words, actions both near and afar fall into the hearts and minds of people all over the world. Remember this in those times you feel like your words may fall on deaf ears. They don't. Please comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Ludwina xxx

Posted on 14/12/2011 by Ludwina

very interesting page. Nice picture you're having in here. Thanks for what you're having in here. Thanks!

Posted on 15/12/2011 by domain name purchase india

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A heartfelt testimonial from a person I've never met...

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You never know the impact you have on people

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