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Stepping out: A local mum's journey from self-doubt to entrepreneurship

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Approaching 40 and juggling motherhood, career, and life's chaos, Rachel Good launched her wellbeing business with a simple but powerful mission – helping others thrive without burnout, guilt, or compromise.

For years, Rachel had prioritised everyone else's needs above her own, until a moment of realisation changed everything. Now, through her business A Good Balance, she's creating a supportive community where wellbeing forms the foundation for both personal and professional success.

Finding her own balance

"I used to mistakenly view self-care or 'me-time' as a selfish act," Rachel explains, reflecting on her journey. "But I have come to understand that these nurturing habits are vital for my role as a mother, colleague, and friend."

The turning point came in 2024. "Maybe it was turning 40 that January that pushed me to think, 'now or never,'" she says.

After hosting her first event in August and a second in September, Rachel finally gathered the courage to officially establish her company.

"I had always dreamed of running my own business but lacked the confidence," she admits.

Rachel Good, founder of A Good Balance
Rachel Good, founder of A Good BalanceRachel GoodA Good Balance

Small habits, big impact

At the heart of Rachel's approach are the sustainable habits that transformed her own wellbeing – practices she now shares with others.

"As a parent, particularly a working one, it's all too easy to overlook the simple yet vital habits that contribute to our wellbeing," Rachel notes. "Staying hydrated by keeping a water bottle close and prioritising a nutritious breakfast are essential practices I now adhere to."

But one habit stands out above the rest: "The most transformative habit I have embraced is walking. For me, it's not just exercise; it's a crucial aspect of self-care. Stepping outside into nature, breathing in fresh air, soaking up vitamin D, and being present in your surroundings, is incredibly grounding. I return from these walks with a clearer mind and a renewed perspective."

Building a community

Through A Good Balance for Business events, Rachel offers professionals an opportunity to step away from their desks, connect with like-minded peers, and gain insights from guest speakers. These events blend networking with movement to support both personal and professional growth.

What's particularly encouraging for Rachel is how her audience has evolved. "Some who once saw wellness as just a buzzword are now embracing it," she shares. "Each event seems to attract a broader, more diverse audience, which is exactly what I aim for! Poor health affects us all one way or another at some time in our lives. My events aren't limited to those interested in a holistic lifestyle – they're designed for everyone!"

Overcoming challenges

Like many entrepreneurs, Rachel has faced obstacles in building her business. "I've struggled with perfectionism, wanting everything to be flawless before sharing it," she confesses. "But I've realised that as long as I stay true to my core values and purpose, the rest can develop over time."

The local business community has provided vital support. "I'm incredibly grateful for the amazing support from the local business community," Rachel says. "Their encouragement helped me overcome my self-doubt, and it inspires me to give back even more!"

Looking ahead

Rachel has ambitious plans for A Good Balance. "I firmly believe that managing stress and prioritising health are essential for achieving success, not just in our careers but in all areas of life, including family and friendships," she explains. "Unfortunately, we have come to accept stress as a norm, with our bodies becoming dependent on it for daily functioning. This reliance is detrimental in the long run, which is why reintroducing fundamental practices and adopting small, sustainable habits can significantly enhance our overall well-being."

Looking five years ahead, Rachel hopes "the business is thriving, continuing to grow, helping and inspiring more people to achieve some balance."

The bottom line

Through A Good Balance, Rachel Good  is challenging the notion that taking time for ourselves is selfish. Instead, she promotes the powerful idea that true wellbeing isn't about choosing between yourself and others – it's about both.

For those still hesitating to pursue their own business dreams, Rachel offers simple but powerful advice: "Don't be scared... Just, go for it! I'm glad I did."

You can find more information about A Good Balance events and services on LinkedIn or by emailing Rachel at info@agoodbalance.co.uk.

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

An award-winning local law firm

Rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors with an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

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An award-winning local law firm. Attwells is rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors and holds an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

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Suffolk Libraries CEO requests county council 'listen to reason' as takeover decision looms

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With over 22,000 petition signatures opposing the plan, the library charity makes its final appeal before today's cabinet meeting.

Why it matters: Hours before Suffolk County Council's cabinet meets to decide on taking the library service back in-house, Suffolk Libraries is highlighting what it claims Suffolk residents will lose under council management.

The big picture: The charity has run Suffolk's libraries for 12 and a half years and claims the takeover would jeopardise nearly £2.5m in annual financial benefits and numerous innovative services.

Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries, and the County Library in Ipswich
Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries, and the County Library in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

By the numbers: Suffolk Libraries says its charity status delivers substantial financial advantages:

  • £690,000 contributed by Friends' groups for furniture, equipment and refurbishments

  • £150,000 yearly from running prison libraries

  • £500,000 in rates relief due to charity status

  • Nearly £100,000 raised annually through fundraising

  • Almost £1m yearly in grant funding only available to charitable organisations

What they're saying: "We urge Suffolk County Council to listen to reason, to stand by its stated mission 'to make a positive difference for Suffolk', and 'striving to improve, and securing the best possible services'," said Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries.

He pleaded: "Ensure the people of Suffolk continue to benefit from the outstanding library service which has been heralded as the benchmark for excellence within the industry. Please don't make such an important decision based on flawed figures which so many Suffolk residents are clearly opposed to."

Beyond the money: Suffolk Libraries warns that several services may not continue under council control:

  • Arts Council funded programmes

  • Health and wellbeing projects such as Menopause & Me and Moving Minds

  • Community-led initiatives including Men Can Talk and LGBTQIA+ groups

  • The Be Kind to a Kid Christmas toy appeal that donated over 6,000 toys to families in need

The volunteer factor: In 2023-24, over 1,200 volunteers provided 35,500 volunteering hours to the service. The charity says many volunteers "have already stated that they will not continue if the library service is run by the county council."

For context: Suffolk Libraries has achieved numerous industry innovations, including:

  • First library service with a dedicated wellbeing team

  • One of the first to offer libraries as warm spaces during the cost-of-living crisis

  • First to loan eReader devices to customers

  • First to develop its own self-service technology, saving around £100,000

The bottom line: With growing opposition from local residents, MPs, backbench councillors and other key stakeholders, Suffolk Libraries is making a final appeal for the county council to "return to the negotiating table" before the cabinet makes its decision.

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

An award-winning local law firm

Rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors with an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

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