I recently sat down with my friend and former colleague Nina Muhleisen to record an episode of the Self.Styled.Lifepodcast. Nina is the founder of consultancy Three6 and someone whose story, mindset, and approach to work I find deeply inspiring.
You can listen to the full conversation by clicking on the link below, or keep reading to explore my four biggest takeaways from our chat—each one packed with insights that are particularly relevant if you’re navigating leadership, career change or business-building.
1. You Don’t Have To Fit In A Box
One of the things I admire most about Nina’s journey is how she refused to be boxed in.
When the roles on offer didn’t reflect the full range of her skills and values, she didn’t force herself to fit—she created something entirely new instead.
As a career coach, I see so many women trying to make themselves smaller to squeeze into systems that don’t truly serve them. Nina’s story is a reminder that there’s power in building a path that reflects your full brilliance.
Key question: If you weren’t worried about fitting in, what would you create?
2. Strategy Doesn’t Have To Be Complicated
Nina has a remarkable way of making strategic thinking feel accessible. When she started her business, she’d take herself out to lunch with a strategy deck. She asked herself questions like:
- What do I want to achieve this year?
- What are my three focus areas?
- What’s one small action I can take in each area?
It’s easy to get caught up in the word “strategy” and assume it’s only for executives or entrepreneurs. But the truth is, if you have a goal or vision, you already need a strategy – this approach just makes it feel a whole lot more doable.
Try this: Break down your year into focus areas and give yourself time each month to reflect and refine.
3. The Rollercoaster Is Real – And It’s Normal
Nina was beautifully honest about the emotional highs and lows of building a business. She talked openly about the guilt that can show up during the highs, and the self-doubt that comes roaring in during the lows.
What stood out to me was her willingness to be transparent. Too often, success is romanticised and polished for public consumption. Nina reminded me – and I hope reminds you – that real growth often happens in the quiet, messy, in-between moments.
Note to self: You’re not doing it wrong if some days feel hard. You’re just doing it for real.
4. Honour The Vision You Can’t Let Go Of
From the moment she launched Three6, Nina knew she didn’t want to be a solo operator. She wanted to build something bigger – something with purpose, impact, and a team around her.
That clarity helped shape every decision she made. It’s a powerful reminder that our biggest visions aren’t indulgent – they’re essential.
Whether you’re running a business or leading within an organisation, having a strong vision makes it easier to make choices, prioritise your time, and bring others along for the journey.
Reflection: What’s the bigger vision you haven’t been letting yourself fully own?
Whether you’re mapping out your next move, rethinking what leadership looks like for you, or simply craving a work life that feels more aligned, I hope these insights offered a fresh perspective. The truth is, you don’t need to follow someone else’s version of success – you get to define it for yourself. And when you do, everything shifts.
And, until next time, stay fabulous xx
