Following is an article written by Natalie Suppes, Founder and CEO of S&S Creative, on her journey as an entrepreneur amidst her personal challenges. The article was part of Exeleon’s Women History Month Celebration.

When life gets tough, as it often does, I’m faced with two choices: giving up or getting going. For me, giving up has never been an option, even when faced with a major health challenge. I didn’t just sit back when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. I decided to turn my struggle into something positive. Rather than letting my illness slow me down, I let it push me to do something remarkable! I not only made lemonade but went on to build a thriving digital marketing agency in the process.

I share my story with people, not for fame, but to show others that it’s possible to overcome substantial obstacles and still make your dreams come true.

The Intersection Between Vulnerability and Strength

Success for me hasn’t transpired by pretending that everything is perfect. Quite the contrary; it’s my raw and honest approach to sharing life’s ups and downs that has resonated with over 30,000+ followers.

This is the side of business rarely shown on social media, where vulnerability meets Strength. I show up, unapologetically myself, sharing the realities of juggling a significant career with the unpredictability of a chronic illness. Here lies an important lesson: You can foster a community and build success by simply being genuine.

• Embracing Vulnerability

I have been candid about my struggles with Crohn’s disease, a chronic illness that has significantly impacted my life. Instead of hiding this aspect of my identity, I have chosen to share my experiences openly, setting a new precedent for what leadership can look like.

• Redefining Strength

Through my openness, I have redefined the conventional image of strength. Strength, as I exemplify, is not about presenting an invulnerable front. It’s about acknowledging your struggles, facing them head-on, and using them as a foundation to build something greater.

• Inspirational Leadership

My approach to blending personal vulnerability with undeniable strength has not only contributed to my success but also inspired those around me. My story encourages other women to own their stories, embrace their challenges, and lean into their vulnerabilities as a source of strength and empowerment.

• Creating a Supportive Community

By sharing my Journey, I have fostered a community where openness and support flourish. This community serves as a reminder that one does not have to face their battles alone. There is strength in numbers, and even more so in collective empathy and understanding.

Authenticity Translates to Empowerment

What’s remarkable about my journey is not just my commercial success but how I support and uplift other women to achieve their own goals. I understand the unique challenges faced by women, especially those who are sick, yet I push the narrative that these obstacles don’t define one’s capabilities.

• Relatability

My openness about my life’s challenges enables me to connect on a personal level with my audience. My story serves as a beacon of hope and a source of strength for anyone facing their own battles, silently or otherwise.

• Trust and Credibility

By sharing my journey, I’ve built a foundation of trust and credibility. My followers and clients don’t just see me as a business leader; they see me as a trusted advisor who understands the complexity of balancing health challenges with professional ambitions.

• Empowerment through Visibility

I use my platform to shine a light on the often-overlooked truth that illness does not preclude success. My visibility and success provide tangible proof that women can forge their paths in business, regardless of the obstacles they may face.

• Inspiration to Act

Beyond just sharing my story, I inspire action. I encourage my followers and clients to embrace their own narratives, leverage their unique insights, and pursue their professional ambitions with vigor and confidence.

At S&S Creative, the mission goes beyond achieving results; it involves recognizing that the entrepreneurial women we serve come with a diverse range of life experiences, including health challenges. It’s an agency that stands as a reminder: your circumstances don’t define your success.

The Power of Storytelling

My ‘Sick and Successful’ podcast not only echoes the sentiments of my professional journey but also offers a platform to discuss the seldom-shared complexities of managing a business while encountering health struggles. It’s a source of solidarity, inspiration, and practical advice for those navigating similar paths.

• Connects on an Emotional Level

Stories, especially those involving personal struggles and triumphs like mine, forge a deep emotional connection with the audience. It’s this connection that makes my message more impactful and memorable.

• Serves as a Source of Inspiration

My own journey, shared through my podcast and public speaking, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. My story exemplifies that it’s possible to overcome significant challenges and achieve success, providing a powerful motivational boost to those who may be facing their own struggles.

• Educates Through Real-life Experiences

Beyond just inspiring, my storytelling is educational. I share tangible insights and lessons learned from navigating the complexities of managing a chronic illness while building and running a successful business. These stories offer practical advice that listeners can apply in their own lives.

• Builds a Community of Support

Sharing stories creates a sense of shared experience, fostering a community among listeners and followers. This community becomes a source of support, encouragement, and further storytelling, amplifying the message that one is not alone in their struggles.

• Promotes Awareness and Understanding

Through storytelling, I also play a crucial role in raising awareness about chronic illnesses like Crohn’s disease. My openness in discussing how it affects my life invites greater understanding and empathy, contributing to breaking down stigmas associated with such conditions.

You Can Be Sick and Successful. Yes, You Can Be Both!

For every person who has ever felt overshadowed by their circumstances, my story serves as a powerful reminder: Your battles may shape you, but they don’t define you.

I defy the traditional narrative of success, not just surviving, but thriving, proving day in and day out that you can be both sick and successful. And I encourage everyone, especially those battling chronic illnesses, to redefine their limits and chase after their dreams. Through strategic planning, relentless perseverance, and unwavering self-belief, you too can carve out a slice of success. It’s all about turning the tough stuff into a stepping stone, not a stop sign.

May my journey remind you to embrace your journey, celebrate your battles, and always stride forward!

About Natalie Suppes:

As a beacon of hope and strength, Natalie shares her journey of being “Sick and Successful” through her podcast, aiming to uplift and encourage those facing their own challenges. Her authentic storytelling and dedication have cultivated a community of over 30,000 loyal followers, making her a true inspiration in the digital marketing world and beyond.

Visit S&S Creative Website.

Read Digital Version of the Magazine.

Follow Natalie Suppes on Instagram.

The post Natalie Suppes: My Journey to Empowering Women in Business appeared first on Exeleon Magazine.