I started my own business nearly 5 years ago now, after a 20 year career in pharmaceutical, capital equipment, medical devices and distribution in a variety of junior right through to senior positions around the globe.

I was lucky enough to be accepted as one of the biotechnology mentors at Enterprise Ireland and to date, I've had about 15 clients with them, and several others via other channels. What's spurned me to write this article today, well, I was contacted last night by a lovely lady Deborah, who I mentored last year as part of her start up journey with a fantastic business, that will truly make a difference within the healthcare arena not only to the patient group it is for, but for the nursing staff and associated clinicians, and she needed my help again.

I love the fact that even though we don't speak often, she felt that she could rely on me to help her and give her a little of my expertise. I don't for one minute profess to know everything, who does? but I do have some nuggets deep in my "clever file" as my husband calls it, and I'm only too happy to share. Also, Deborah, truly appreciates my time, loves the way I phrase things and really listens to the advice that I give her. It's great to feel appreciated. What I really respect about Deborah, is that from the start of her journey, she has done everything to the best of her ability, she has considered everything from concept to commercialisation, and done as much as she can to ensure that every aspect of her business from HR, Clinical Evaluations, Marketing, Sales, distribution, is absolutely on the money. We discussed when we were working together, if you're going to do something, do it right, even if it takes a little longer. This is exactly what she has done.

All I want to do is to share some of my knowledge, skills, insights and entrepreneurial spirit that I've gained over the years and be under no illusion, being a entrepreneur isn't easy, I actually think it's a calling - drive, determination, tenacity, fear, intrepidation are all things I have felt, and still feel and to have someone in your corner that can help you along the path is great.

I can help you look at your business as whole, advise you on funding vehicles, selling strategies, marketing plans, product development, distribution strategies, quality and regulatory to name a few, but most of all, I can help you enjoy the entrepreneurial journey and try and help to alleviate some of the stresses and strains that come with it.

I spent another session with a new client yesterday and as we left, she asked me could she give me a hug, as she felt she needed to as she felt so much better - if I am getting that kind of response from my sessions, I must be doing something right.........don't get me wrong, we don't have self help sessions, we have strategic business discussion and planning sessions, but this is often what entrepreneurs need, as they have so many plates spinning, they're terrified to drop one - all I do is to help focus and tell you that it's alright for a plate to drop......

I love being a mentor, I love to help another person or team succeed, enjoy their journey, help, guide and teach them along the way and see them shine..........