The Exhaustion of Holding On
I’ve always been open about my struggles with anxiety and depression, but lately, they’ve been hitting harder than ever. And it’s not just the business struggles—it’s the exhaustion of fighting for something that feels like it keeps slipping through my fingers. The weight of constantly pushing, hoping, and believing, only to feel like the world isn’t meeting me halfway.
Spirited Women hit us hard financially, and coming home to even more manufacturing issues just broke me. It was one thing too many. I wanted to curl up in a ball and disappear. In fact I literally did curl up in a ball. The disappearing part has been a little harder.
Thankfully, I reached out to a few of my Ambassadors, and and they lifted me up. They stepped in, took over a few things, and reminded me I wasn’t alone. (Thank you, ladies—you have no idea how much that meant.) I slept, gathered myself, and told myself: You can do this. Keep going. Launch the new range.
So, we launched the Vibe Core Range on Tuesday night. We waited… and waited. I even checked my emails to make sure the launch email had gone out properly.
Tumbleweeds. Two orders.
After months of setbacks, stress, and pushing forward despite everything, this one hit differently. Like the universe was telling me to stop fighting for something that just isn’t working.
So, What Now?
Honestly? I don’t know. If you have ideas, I’d love to hear them.
But either way, I want to be honest about where I’m at.
If you’ve ever poured your heart into something and felt like it wasn’t enough, I see you. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty, I understand. And if you’re struggling to hold onto hope, just know—you’re not alone.
💙 Kylie
I know this isn’t super helpful sorry but I thought the new range is gorgeous – if I were in a position/shape to buy some right now, I would in a heartbeat
Thanks for being brave and honest Kylie, and I’m sorry things are so hard right now for you (and other small business owners). I wish I could buy more – but I’ve just started studying and things are tight. I don’t have any suggestions but just want to say kia kaha ❤️
Hi Kylie
Hang in there, you are doing a great job. It may not be reflecting in sales just yet, but there is a whole Zeenya tribe out there that absolutely love our Zeenyas and no doubt have wish lists!
Thank you for the 20% off, it’s very much appreciated (and Afterpay lol) Will look forward to my order arriving soon :)
Look after yourself as best you can xx
Hi Kylie
Lots of very wise words from Ellen and I know the Zeenya community will be thinking of you and sending you all the positivity possible. I loved meeting you and your family at Tarawera Ultra and those relationships built across the community and with your ambassadors are gold. So fantastic that they stepped up. We connect with people through Zeenya. I call out to people across the road when I’m walking and see they’re wearing Zeenya. A bit random, but there you go. I felt very cool in my Whakapapa shorts at a Whangarei event on Sunday and loved people commenting on them as I went past. This is a very special Aotearoa product which we in the whanau love and appreciate. I’m only a newbie – not much more than a year since I bought my first Zeenya but now have nine pieces. It’s a wee bit addictive because it is so lovely to wear and always draws attention – including to each other.
I know that doesn’t help you when things get really tough. And Ellen has wisely commented on the economic situation right now which doesn’t help your fledgling business. Hopefully, the tide will turn soon. Strangers in the street often comment on my gear so there must be a market you haven’t hit yet that is outside the main sports events and the existing community. I know nothing about marketing but a pivotal ad somewhere new might be worth considering.
I bought several core pieces in the early days but don’t buy them now because I can’t do without the pockets! When I head out exercising, I don’t carry anything so my keys and phone are in my pockets. Others just looking for a comfortable pair of leggings or capris for everyday wear probably love them. Don’t get me wrong, I still love mine but I’ll continue to spend my money on the sport range. I know you’ve done pre-orders already and that worked for me too.
I just want to reiterate my thanks to you for taking on this business and keeping it going. It is lovely to be part of the community and to be distinctive and comfortable when I’m out exercising. Hopefully, the 20% offer that you’re generously and bravely making will draw some orders. Arohanui Kylie.
Hi
Honestly no real idea. It looks like it’s hard for a lot of small businesses at the moment. The only suggestions I would have would be seeing if there are any events/expo’s you can attend (though thinking there may be costs there too :( ) Are there any women in business events around Wellington you can join in even if just to talk to other women in business?
Hang in there things will improve.
Emma
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