Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: Optimism and Entrepreneurial Spirit Launch a New Start

Our lives can be full of setbacks, but how we respond counts. And when it comes to entrepreneurialism, it's not all about starting from scratch.

I recently had a conversation with an Executive Encore video podcast guest who is an inspiring example of someone who has transformed her setbacks into comebacks and has tapped her optimism and entrepreneurial spirit to launch a new start.

Renée Cormier, the president of CMO On The Go, shared her story of how she faced adversity head-on, turning it into an opportunity to create something truly remarkable.

In this week's blog post, we will delve into Renée's journey, learn how she came up with the idea for CMO On The Go, how she dealt with a life-threatening health issue, and how her story can inspire other women executives and entrepreneurs over 60.

Understanding the Genesis of a Comeback Idea: Renée's journey to becoming the founder of CMO On The Go was not a direct one. Her background is in business management, and early on, she learned how the role of a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) could impact the success of a business. After working with several startups, Renée noticed a gap in the market that traditional CMOs weren't filling. She saw small and mid-sized businesses struggling with access to expert-level marketing advice without the expense of hiring a full-time CMO. This realization led her to found CMO On The Go, a fractional CMO consulting firm that helps businesses overcome their marketing hurdles.

Staying Positive Amidst a Health Crisis: Unfortunately, life doesn't always go as planned, and Renée was dealt a challenging hand when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in her fifties. But she didn't let the disease define her life. Instead, she used her strong spirit to keep moving forward and stay positive throughout her journey. Renée rallied her personal and professional network and found solace in helping others through her work at CMO On The Go. Renée also found that practising mindfulness and gratitude for the smallest things in life helped her focus on the positive aspects of her journey.

Entrepreneurialism Over Retirement: Many women approaching the crossroads of 60 and beyond might feel that their career options are limited. Many accept and perpetuate the myths of aging and internalize ageism. But that doesn't have to be the case. We should not allow negative perceptions to dictate our destiny. The Encore blog and VIP resources explore various ways to blend life and work, including hybrid retirement options that allow women to keep working. Encore blogs discuss different work options for women in their 60s and beyond, such as part-time work, self-employment, entrepreneurship, consulting, freelance, and independent contracting. For Renée, becoming an entrepreneur was the perfect option. She had the skills, knowledge, and experience to launch CMO On The Go, and she used her drive and determination to make it a success. Renée continues to thrive in the process by building self-trust and optimism.

Working with Purpose: Renée's journey has shown us the power of healthy optimism and finding purpose in our work. Her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for helping small and mid-sized businesses have made her role as CMO On The Go more meaningful than ever before. Instead of taking a step backward, women approaching 60 can leap forward by working with purpose. Renée's story proves that life's challenges don't have to derail our lives or hold us back; challenges can propel us toward self-actualization.

Final Words

Renée Cormier's journey is an incredible example of how women can turn setbacks into comebacks. Her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for helping businesses have resulted in the success of CMO On The Go. And consider the wisdom and value she brings to other small business owners. Her story also demonstrates the importance of adopting healthy optimism, reaching deep for the source of your spirit, and trusting yourself to launch new starts that align with your sources of satisfaction and self-actualization. Renée's journey inspires women executives and entrepreneurs of all generations to stay true to their passions, work towards a fulfilling life and career, and be awesome at any age.

Next Steps

Now that Renée's journey has surely inspired us, it's time for self-reflection.

• How will you harness this newfound inspiration?
• What challenges in your life can you turn into opportunities?
• What passion or idea have you been holding back that could be your breakthrough idea that fills a gap?
• What steps are you willing to take to realize your potential?

Remember, your dreams don't come with an expiration date. Consider how you can make your own comeback. Comment below or reach out, I'd love to hear your thoughts and help guide you through your journey. 

For Executive Encore blogs related to this topic, click "Categories" on this page.

• Listen to the Executive Encore podcast. Women Finding Fulfillment After 60!  
• Watch the Executive Encore YouTube Playlist, including Renée interview, Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: Optimism and Entrepreneurial Spirit Launch a New Start