Success Stories

Compassion and Entrepreneurship: A Journey Defined by Motherhood By Heléne Smuts, Founder of Credo Growth and Author of “Ditch Mediocrity”

A Compassionate Beginning

Growing up in a minister's home where both my parents also served as ministry counselors, compassion and empathy were part of my upbringing. However, it wasn't until I became a mother that I truly understood the depth of these qualities. As a child, I developed a "toughen up, cupcake" attitude from having much older brothers and a sister, which I am quite grateful for. Despite this, I witnessed my parents' dedication to helping others, offering guidance during times of struggle. These experiences shaped my interest in psychology, particularly as I observed how people transformed through compassion and support. Despite the hardships, including losing my father, our family held onto integrity and the belief in the inherent goodness in people.

Creating a Business with Integrity

The founding of Credo Growth stemmed from my desire to create a business that aligned with my values and passion for fostering team unity and individual growth. My past experiences with organizations that lacked transparency and consistency inspired me to build a business that focussed on people and empowerment. I knew I wanted to create a workplace that felt inclusive and growth-oriented.

Lessons from Motherhood

Motherhood has played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership and life. The journey taught me the importance of balancing compassion with personal boundaries. My mother's selflessness, combined with her emphasis on respecting differences, deeply influenced how I engage with others. Through my daughters, I've gained insights into patience, active listening, and nurturing independence. These lessons have translated into my role as a leader, reminding me to be both compassionate and firm while striving for excellence.

Finding Harmony Between Work and Family

Motherhood has also reinforced the significance of integrating work and family without striving for perfect balance. The daily negotiations between family time and professional commitments have cultivated resilience and flexibility. This journey would not have been possible without the unity my husband and I share in navigating the challenges and joys of parenthood.

Staying True to My Values

Ultimately, my path in entrepreneurship and leadership is guided by the principles of integrity, empathy, resilience, and continuous growth. Through my experiences in both psychology and motherhood, I remain committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others. This journey has shown me that compassion, excellence, grit, and striving for high performance are not just ideals—they are a way of life and the foundation for meaningful entrepreneurship.

 

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