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From Surviving to Thriving: Surrendering to the Journey and Owning Your Potential

If someone had told me years ago that I would be standing here today, leading a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs, I might have smiled politely while quietly doubting it. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and no amount of planning or doing all the "right" things can guarantee a smooth path. What I’ve come to realize is that the greatest transformation happens when we surrender to the journey while boldly owning our potential.


A graphic with an image of a woman being showed in the shadows and then bright light to emphasize going from surviving to thriving or this to that as the graphic reads.


I often say that aging is a gift—not just for the years it grants us but for the hindsight it offers. This hindsight has profoundly shaped how I lead the Made To Grow Project, allowing me to recognize the importance of fostering a community rooted in support, collaboration, and empowerment.


The lessons learned through my own struggles help me create a space where women entrepreneurs can grow confidently, learn from each other's experiences, and thrive together. The clarity that comes from lived experience, the understanding and acceptance that develop over time, and the resilience slowly built through life’s trials are some of the most incredible gifts! You begin to truly know yourself or at least start peeling back the layers to find out who you are at your core.


My personal story begins in a place of deep adversity. I grew up in a dysfunctional and abusive home, moving over 20 times by the time I was 13. I had no stability, no deep friendships, and yet I wore a smile like armour. I was the poster child for the secret keeper—the “I’m okay” girl. But life has a way of presenting opportunities even in the darkest times. At 13, after a series of incidents, I made the life-changing decision to ask to be removed from my home and placed into care. Living in a girls’ group home until I was 17 taught me structure, responsibility, and accountability. But it also ingrained in me a deep-rooted need to please others, to strive for perfection, and to measure my worth by my performance.


At 17, I quit high school after a humiliating experience with a teacher and found a full-time job. I threw myself into work, loving the recognition that came with doing a great job. I became an overachiever, driven by the belief that I could handle anything. Through this, I learned a powerful lesson: the things we fear are often only scary because we haven’t experienced them yet. More importantly, I learned to trust myself—that I would figure things out, that I had choices, and that I could change my mind anytime.


Becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t part of my plan—it was born out of necessity. The resilience and adaptability I developed through overcoming personal adversity became invaluable tools in building my business. Launching Generation Green was not just a business decision but a reflection of my determination to create something meaningful and sustainable, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Diagnosed with a rare uterine tumor, I was forced to confront my health and my life. I didn’t spiral into the "what-ifs." Instead, I researched, learned, and took action. This journey of self-education and empowerment led me to launch Generation Green, a business that grew from my desire to live purposefully and make informed choices. It was the moment I truly found my voice and stepped into my confidence. And in a surprising twist, after numerous reviews, my tumor was found to be benign—a rare case indeed!


I believe that by focusing on what I could control and not drowning in fear, I changed my outcome (I like to think to think so anyways). The same can be said for the opportunities and challenges life presents—they often lead us exactly where we need to be.

My mother’s recent passing was another pivotal moment. Our relationship had been complicated—one of role confusion and unmet needs. Yet, in the last year of her life, dementia softened her, and I experienced the nurturing mother I had longed for. Sitting beside her for six days as she let go, I found healing, forgiveness, and love in ways I never thought possible.


Today, at 58, I feel like my life is just beginning! Launching "Small Talks", a program designed to foster authentic conversations among small business owners, has reignited my passion for creating meaningful connections and empowering others to grow. This endeavor exemplifies how embracing new opportunities with purpose and enthusiasm can open doors to incredible possibilities. I live with the understanding that I always have choices and the power to create the life I desire.

I choose to live with joy, purpose, and service to my community. I surround myself with growth-minded people who inspire me, and I continue to explore my potential. Most importantly, I believe I am worthy and deserving of all the good life has to offer—and I welcome it wholeheartedly.


The Made To Grow Project was born from this mindset—the belief that when women support women, incredible things happen! We thrive when we collaborate, share our stories, and lift each other up. My journey has shown me that surrendering to the unknown while taking ownership of your potential creates space for transformation. Life will throw you 360-degree turns, but if you trust yourself and stay open, you can navigate them with resilience and grace.


I share my story not for sympathy but to remind you that no matter when you start, you have the power to change your path. You have the strength to surrender to the journey and build the courage to own your potential! And when you do, life will meet you in the most extraordinary ways.


I 'll end this with eternal gratitude to all who have crossed my path, supported me, cared for me and helped me heal. We simply cannot do it all on our own, I encourage you to find your community and watch what kind of magic happens.


Sherry Sobey

Co-founder & Director, The Made To Grow Project

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