With a passion for simplifying self-care and well-being, Ann Thomas tells us about her journey with Revel.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented and inspiring folks, so we’ve decided to share the love by interviewing some of the lovely Launchpad members. Looking for inspiration? Check out how Ann Thomas, the founder of Revel, gets it done like a boss.
What is your backstory and why did you decide to launch your business?
My journey to founding Revel took an unconventional path. After a brief stint in engineering, I discovered my true calling while working with young children during a holiday job. This love for working with kids led me to study early childhood and work in the field for seven fulfilling years.
When I became pregnant, the decision to be a full-time parent was clear. However, life had other plans, and I found myself delving into psychology when faced with unexpected challenges. I embarked on a journey of self-education through courses and in-depth research, eventually doing my specialist certification in positive psychology.
It was in late 2019, by sheer coincidence, that I began sharing the benefits of journaling, initially with a few experimental journals. Then, the unexpected arrival of Covid-19 significantly impacted mental health, and the practice of journaling quickly gained momentum, spreading like wildfire.
What has been your biggest challenge so far and how did you overcome it?
My most significant challenge has been deciding to decline offers from investors for Revel. While financial backing is valuable, I firmly believe in maintaining the authentic and heartfelt essence of the brand. By retaining complete control over the brand’s direction, I continue ensuring that every aspect of our offerings genuinely resonates with our community. This decision has allowed us to stay true to our commitment to simplifying self-care and promoting mental well-being while upholding our core values.
I overcame the shortage of financial support by optimising our available resources and seeking creative ways to generate revenue. Additionally, I explored collaborations and partnerships that aligned with Revel’s mission and values, allowing us to tap into new audiences and markets.
How do you stay motivated and energised?
Setting clear goals, practising self-care, and embracing a growth mindset are my key tools here. A positive environment and diverse projects add excitement. I ensure we engage in something new every few months to keep me excited and energised.
How do you deal with self-doubt or criticism?
Maintaining my strong sense of purpose, surrounding myself with my supportive community, and staying open to learning and adaptation have been crucial in managing self-doubt and handling criticism effectively.
Favourite place to work?
My desk wedged in a little nook between my bay window and bed.
Can you share a work mantra that you use?
Embrace the journey,
One thing you can keep talking about for hours?
The interconnectedness of all things.
Your go-to self-care activity?
Long solo walks.
One piece of advice to your younger self?
“You aren’t broken. Your uniqueness is going to be the proudest aspect about yourself in the future.”
Get in touch with Ann Thomas online.
Launchpad is a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It is designed to make the entrepreneurial journey not only easier, and more successful, but also a whole lot more fun. We offer almost daily activities for members to connect, along with weekly masterclasses, member networking roulette, small-business mentoring and media profiles on Honeycombers. Check it out and join us!
