Hi Reader,​
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This week, I’m sharing something I don’t usually talk about. It’s raw, it’s touchy, and it kind of marks the end of a chapter in my professional life.

My journey in marketing has been anything but smooth. People often assume I’ve just been winning in this field, but truthfully, it’s been more about failure, redirection, and unanswered prayers that later made sense.

I get it, though. As a coach, people come to me to start a career in marketing or grow in their role.

I’ve helped nearly a hundred people grow their careers – some even became directors, department heads, and CEOs.

But in my own journey? It often felt like my growth was stifled in the one area I’m best at – and that companies trust me for – digital marketing.

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One of my insecurities has been the desire to one day become the head of an entire marketing department.

It’s not that I haven’t been promoted – I have.

But anytime I try to take wider responsibilities, companies prefer that I lead on the digital front.

Apparently, being great at what you do is now a problem, at least for me.

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There were several moments when the role of department head was literally within reach – but it would pass right in front of me

Meanwhile, I’m coaching other people into those exact roles. What a contrast.

It’s only by God’s grace and my deep coaching training that I was able to hold both realities – without projecting my struggles onto my clients. And honestly? I think I did a great job.

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I even remember taking a leap of faith during that season. I co-founded a company, licensed in Canada, and took on the role of CMO. I was so proud, so hopeful.

But even that didn’t last. Something still felt off for me. I eventually had to leave the role.

That was during a season when I was trying to figure out what the heck I actually wanted from my career.

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Now that I’ve moved past that chapter, I want to share with you some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned. If you’re in the middle of a career struggle or at a crossroads, I hope this sparks something for you too.

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1. I had to learn the art of failing (and rising) over and over again.

We were watching an episode of Bluey about Pass the Parcel. Different birthday parties. Different kids. Same game. The rule? If the music stops and the last wrapper lands on you, you win the big gift. Bingo, one of the main characters, keeps losing. Over and over again.

At one point, her mom tells her, “I’m sorry you didn’t win,” and Bingo replies: “It’s okay… at least my friend won.”

Her mom pauses and says: “I think you’re getting good at losing.”

Oof. That line hit hard. You can watch the episode here – you’re welcome:

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Despite all the losses, Bingo chooses to keep playing and every single time, she gets good at handling losses.​
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That’s what happened to me too.

There were seasons where the goal was so close, I could almost hold them.

But when the time finally came that I was offered the role I thought I wanted… I turned it down. Twice.

On the outside, it looked like I lost. But internally, I knew I was at peace. I was winning the clarity and courage to step closer into what I really want.

I no longer fear failure – or looking like a failure.

I now have a clear definition of my own success, walking my own path in my own way and feel great everyday.

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2. I had to learn what I really want

It sounds so simple, right? 😂 But I stayed stuck for 6 years in my previous job trying to figure this out.

I realised that Marketing was never really my idea. It was suggested to me by my first supervisor. She told me, “If you want to grow in corporate, pick a department, build your skills, and stay there.”

And so I did.

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But… what came naturally to me was always coaching and writing.

Even back then, I was already writing and often get asked for advice including people way older than me. When I speak, it activates something powerful in others. They begin to see who they are.

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So when this chapter of trying-to-be-someone-I-am-not came to a close, I realized something deeply spiritual:

This transition into becoming a full-time entrepreneur and coach isn’t just a career move. It’s an alignment.

It’s about leaving behind what the world told me I should do – and stepping into what God is actually calling me to do.

It feels food to no longer feel confused. No longer trying to do it all. No longer trying to force what’s no longer mine.

And for that, I’m grateful.

I am grateful for the skills, the connections and the tenacity I’ve learned from my first career, marketing, and I take all of that with me into my next season.

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A few lessons I want to leave you with — no matter where you are in your journey:

🔹 If you’re just starting your career, focus on building real skills and getting hands-on experience. Don’t just meet expectations – go beyond them. This is the time to stretch yourself.

🔹 If you’re in the middle of your career, take a step back and define success on your terms. Not just for work – but for your whole life: career, health, relationships, and purpose.

🔹 If you’re dreaming of starting your own thing, the best time to begin is now. Not when you quit your job, not when everything is crystal clear – but now. Clarity comes from movement. Follow your curiosity. Test and learn fast.

🔹 And if you’re a retiree reading this – we’d love to hear from you! What are your top 3 career lessons or tips you’d pass on to the next generation? Reply to this email!

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Questions for you this week

1. What does “winning” look like to you now – and has that changed over the years?
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2. Whose dream are you really building?
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3. What truth about yourself are you finally ready to admit?
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Thanks for letting me share this with you.

Wherever you are in your own journey – confused, thriving, stuck, transitioning – I hope you give yourself permission to want what you want, and to change the story when you need to.

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You’re not behind. You’re becoming.

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Here’s to our fabulous plot twists,​
Denielle (＾▽＾)