Overcoming adversity and challenges to build a rewarding business and support others. Hear from Amanda Birnie, franchise partner at Razzamataz Glasgow North.

NLP practitioner and Principal of Razzamataz Glasgow North, Amanda shares her own journey to support others to overcome obstacles and achieve both professional and personal success. 

“I’ve been a professional dancer and dance teacher all my life and knew from a young age that my passion was passing on my love of dance to children. When I had my first son, I had a mini stroke and found out I had a heart condition. This resulted in various hospital procedures and operations, and I suffered major anxiety. My second pregnancy was classed as very high risk but I was fortunate enough to have two healthy children. I was busy with two young boys and being a part of the Razzamataz network and when the Glasgow North school came up for sale, I knew I had to go for it because it was right on my doorstep in an area that I’m very familiar with. Although work was going well, I quickly noticed that my younger son was not developing as I knew he should. It took a lot of time and being persistent with doctors, but he was diagnosed with autism at the age of two and a half. Without me really being aware of it, things slowly started to unravel in my life. My mental health took a big dip, both children were very poor sleepers, so I was totally exhausted, and my marriage broke down. I moved with my sons out of the family home and felt so dejected. But the reality hit me of being on my own with two children, one of who had additional needs, so I knew I had to start to turn things around. I started seeing a life coach and began implementing the things that she advised such as journaling, cold water therapy and a morning routine. It was nothing that I didn’t already know but this time I committed to regular practice, even starting my own Instagram page to document my journey and inspire others in a similar situation. Once I put things in place to cope with life, I started to see the benefits to my Razzamataz business too. I also completed an NLP course and regularly meditate and even if I have a bad day, I can bounce back much quicker than before. My mental health is so much better, and I’ve got my drive and determination back too. I have goals in place for my school and know I can provide a good life for my boys. I also get so much out of supporting others on their own journey and feel like my life is where it was always supposed to be.”

Amanda is committed to helping young people achieve their potential, by becoming an NLP Practitioner where she implements the skills she learnt to enhance opportunities for her students and other young people. 

At this year’s Conference, Amanda shared her incredible journey with our franchise partners and taught some hugely beneficial exercises and skills to help navigate the everyday challenges.

Amanda has furthered her knowledge of children with special needs by attending training in Autism Awareness and completing a course in Neurodiversity.   

#EmbraceEquity #InternationalWomensDay #NLP #Neurodiversity #Journey