Back in 1997, I was flat broke, newly graduated, and freshly a dad.

Three months had passed since finishing university, and despite applying for everything and anything, no one was giving me a break. I was picking up whatever work I could find, from mixing cement to painting fences, just to keep going.  Things were not going my way; I will never forget yet another failed interview vividly: the same day Princess Diana passed away. The world felt heavy in more ways than one.

By October, my funds were totally gone.  It was either a tin of beans or a loaf of bread, I even had to borrow money to buy a train ticket to the interview, this was my best opportunity yet.
Alan Saunders interviewed me for a role at Topps Tiles. It wasn’t the dream job I’d imagined post-uni, but it was:

• 🧱 A solid opportunity at a growing company fresh from IPO
• 📈 A chance to develop and progress
• 💷 A job. With a wage.
• 🤝 A leader who believed in me

That belief (in me) changed everything.

My first wage packet? £600. Rent? £400. Tight doesn’t even cover it, but I didn’t look back. With guidance from Alan, and later Dave Henderson, I grew into a competent Manager, and eventually a Leader.

To this day, I am still a shareholder. Still grateful.

Because that was my break.

🔹 Great leaders see potential others might overlook.
🔹 They give people a chance.
🔹 They create the space for someone to rise.

I work with many leaders like that, and also with those who aspire to be. It’s possible. But you have to want it. And when you get your break? Make it count.

👉 Can you remember your break?
👉 Who gave it to you?
👉 Are you still waiting for it?

Let’s talk about it 👇

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I’m Laurence Loxam – I’ve pushed limits in business, on mountains, and at the finish line.

Now I help elite professionals do the same, pushing past the point most people stop.

I coach CEOs, doctors, lawyers, and founders who’ve hit success, but still feel there’s more.

Together, we unlock clarity, sharpen confidence, and lead with conviction.

🔗 loxamconsultingltd.org

📩 Ready for your next leadership breakthrough? Let’s connect.

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