The Accidental Entrepreneur: Sahar Hashemi's Inspiring Journey

From Lawyer to Coffee Chain Pioneer

Sahar Hashemi describes herself as an accidental entrepreneur. Her journey began in the corporate world as a lawyer. She had a steady job, and everything seemed neatly in place. But one day, she noticed something simple yet profound: the UK lacked American-style coffee bars. There were no cosy corners where people could grab a cappuccino, meet friends, or linger over a latte.

Curious, Sahar did her homework. She followed the route of the Circle Line in London, getting off at every stop. She looked around for an American-style coffee bar. To her surprise, she found none. This observation sparked an idea that she believed could work.

Most people might have shrugged and moved on. But Sahar didn’t. She took action.

The Birth of Coffee Republic

Together with her brother, she launched Coffee Republic — one of the first coffee chains in the UK. It wasn’t an easy road. She faced scepticism, self-doubt, and the fear of stepping into a world she knew nothing about. Yet, that initial try blossomed into a brand worth millions, transforming the way the UK drinks coffee.

👉🏾 The lesson? You don’t always need a business plan or the “perfect moment.” Sometimes, you just need to notice a gap, step forward in faith, and give it a go. Amazing things happen when you try.

Embracing the Journey

Sahar's story is a reminder that we all have the potential to create change. It’s about embracing the journey, even when it feels uncertain. Each step we take, no matter how small, can lead to something remarkable.

Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life

As busy mums, we often juggle countless responsibilities. It’s easy to overlook the small moments that can spark inspiration. But what if we took a moment to pause? What if we noticed the gaps in our own lives? Perhaps there’s a need we can fill or a passion we can explore.

Taking the First Step

Taking that first step can be daunting. I know it can feel overwhelming. But remember, every great journey begins with a single step. Whether it’s starting a new hobby, pursuing a passion project, or even launching a business, the key is to start.

The Power of Community

Surrounding ourselves with a supportive community can make all the difference. Seek out friends, family, or even online groups that inspire and uplift you. Sharing your dreams and aspirations with others can provide the encouragement you need to keep going.

Celebrating Small Wins

As we navigate our journeys, let’s not forget to celebrate the small wins. Each achievement, no matter how minor, is a step towards our larger goals. Take a moment to acknowledge your progress and give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it! 🎉

Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits

In conclusion, Sahar Hashemi’s story is a testament to the power of noticing opportunities and taking action. As we embrace our own journeys, let’s remember that we have the ability to create change.

So, let’s step forward in faith, give it a go, and see where our paths lead us. Amazing things happen when we try.

The colouring page from 'Daily Affirmations Colouring Book.'