Why a start-up?

 In Wales today there are thousands of business start-ups and a myriad of support services. 

Some people start a business because they have a burning ambition to turn a concept into a money-making venture (Business Wales) or to address a social injustice (Social Firms Wales, Social Business Wales). 

Others are nudged or forced into it by their life circumstances or who they are. These are the people who are uncomfortable in employment or who find themselves unemployable - at least until employers begin to be more flexible. I leave the challenge of sorting out employers to the likes of the amazing Delsion and, for those who are neurodivergent, to Do-It Solutions. 

I am uncomfortable in employment and employers become uncomfortable with me. I simply cannot work to my best within the kind of employment situations that have been available to me. Being brutally honest, I struggle to get a job and I'm not sure I blame the employers. I am neurodivergent. Unless employers and work cultures are neurodivergent-friendly, I would be unhappy and make others unhappy. This is not because I am nasty or incompetent but because I simply do not fit in and have to invest so much energy trying to fit in that I struggle to do my job. 

When I completed my PhD in September, a few people asked if I was going to semi-retire. After all, I'm 57. I might have puddled and fuddled about doing bits and pieces quite happily, except...

Recently, as part of puddling about, I've been working alongside someone who is neurodivergent and who has been trying to access appropriate business support for a venture that has incredible potential. Working alongside her brought me into contact with others in a similar position. In November I hit the level of anger and frustration with systems that means those feelings turn into a steely determination to change the future. 

Within two weeks I found myself with a vision for the future. Initially I was not up for the fight to turn vision into action. I hoped to pass the baton to someone younger, more skilled and better placed. Then I looked at my life, my work and who I am. I realised that the vision came from everything that has gone before and will require every part of who I, uniquely, am. Somewhat fearfully I am now starting work on an 11 year plan with the support of Social Business Wales and a circle of 'angels' rooting for me. I am blessed with 'angels' who are not mindless cheerleaders. My angels whole-heartedly have my back even as they explain the flaws and dangers of my vision.  

And so, at the age of 57, as a neurodivergent menopausal woman, I find myself delving deep within for the resolve for one final extended battle and looking outward for people who can catch, extend and strengthen this vision for a different future.