How this manager went from 'being nice' to leading with impact
How Eilidh transformed her leadership
When Eilidh Graham, a Practice Manager at JRW Hogg & Thorburn, was searching for leadership guidance, she really didn’t want the fluffy advice we see all over the internet.
She needed practical tools that would make her feel more confident and capable in her role.
After attending one of my webinars, Eilidh started reading this newsletter every Tuesday morning - and when Fresh Start opened up, she took the leap and joined us in September.
The results? A manager who now approaches leadership with clarity, kindness, and impact.
One of the biggest lessons that stuck with Eilidh is a core mantra in Fresh Start:
“Stop being nice. Start being kind.”
Nice leaders avoid conflict, sugarcoat feedback, and try to be liked by everyone. It’s exhausting and ineffective.
Kind leaders show compassion, but they’re also direct and honest. They prioritise growth over comfort.
For Eilidh, shifting from “nice” to “kind” was a game-changer.
💬 “I constantly remember growth over perfection and stop being nice, start being kind!”
What made the biggest difference?
Eilidh found herself going back to the Fresh Start course modules repeatedly. Because leadership is NEVER about a one-time fix . We have to commit to continuous growth. And when you join Frest Start, you get forever access.
Eilidh’s new approach not only improved her day-to-day management, but she’s now hopeful she can inspire those around her - including her own senior leadership team.
Eilidh sent me these piccies through last week:
If you’re feeling stuck in your management role, like you’re constantly firefighting or holding back from difficult conversations, Fresh Start is here to help.
The main deets:
A 6-week transformational course for new managers, with 6 pre-recorded modules & 23 individual lessons with the exact systems, mindset tricks and methods I used to go from retail Assistant Manager to FTSE100 Director with world-class team retention and happiness
Live Q&A sessions with me (Catering to all time zones)
A full community of managers going on the same journey to share ideas and ask questions (This is brand new for 2025 and VERY exciting)
I would love you to be my next big success story. There are so many others like Eilidh who joined us in 2024. Read their stories.
We are open for enrollment on the 21st Jan, all you need to do is join the waitlist.
More info will be sent to the waitlist very soon.
Eek, excited,
H