In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to balance the demands of work and family. However, some women have a natural talent for juggling multiple roles quickly and gracefully. Neora’s Amber Olson Rourke is one such woman. As a wife, mother, businesswoman, and entrepreneur, she has learned to do it without sacrificing her sanity or a sense of purpose. Her story inspires women everywhere who strive to build successful careers while raising happy, healthy families.
In this article, we will explore how Amber juggles her various roles, what motivates her to keep pushing forward, and the lessons she has learned along the way. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be inspired!
The Birth of a Business
Olson Rourke started Neora when she was running a medical spa in South Lake, Texas. At the time, she was deeply involved in all aspects of the business. “It was a gratifying experience to help people feel more at ease and confident in their skin and body, “says Olson Rourke.
During this time, Olson Rourke and her father, Jeff Olson, were approached by researchers about a skincare concept that intrigued them. They combined Olson Rourke’s branding and marketing skills with her father’s experience in direct sales to explore the possibility of creating a new company.
Their initial focus was developing a single product, a night cream, without any external financial support. They firmly believed their products would speak for themselves and generate positive buzz. And that’s how Neora came to be, with a small team and a commitment to delivering outstanding products.
A Family Affair
According to Olson Rourke, working with her father to grow their business has been a positive experience that has altered the dynamics in a good way. “As one grows older, we realize that parents are just like any other person.” As a parent with three daughters, she takes pride in establishing a business that creates a legacy for her family.
Her daughters see her working daily to build the business, and they are already discussing running it in the future. She says, “This venture is centered around family and establishing something that will last for generations. As a working mother, the struggle of balancing everything is familiar to me. However, I believe having it all is possible, but not all at once. It’s critical to be intentional with your time and prioritize the task. I manage my schedule by time blocking and being entirely present wherever I am. This means that when I’m working, I’m focused on work, and when I’m with my family, I’m present with them. It’s not about counting minutes or attempting to do everything at once, but rather making the most significant use of the time you have.”
She doesn’t feel guilty or out of balance by having the right attitude and involves her family in her work. She sees her work as an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world, and her family is a part of that.
The Power of She
When asked if she encountered any obstacles growing Neora, Amber responded positively, admitting she faced challenges as a young female founder. She learned to trust her instincts and not assume that someone with more experience or a more prominent title knew more than she did. Additionally, she stressed the significance of showing up confidently and acting like she deserved the seat at the table. Olson Rourke says, “When women do this, they make excellent leaders and are heard.”
When asked how her distinctive outlook has contributed to the company’s success, Olson Rourke said, “As a busy mother and a key target audience for our products, I offer valuable input on our consumers’ preferences and needs. This enables us to make informed decisions on product development, ensuring that our offerings align with our customers’ lifestyles and desires.”
In addition, as the leader of a predominantly female sales team, she’s familiar with the unique concerns and challenges that may hinder their progress. Drawing from her experiences, she can inspire them to overcome these obstacles and make decisions that benefit their businesses.
Unlocking Success Through Mentorship
When starting a skincare and wellness business, Olson Rourke says, “It’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of your target audience and their needs. Seeking guidance from knowledgeable individuals and trusting your instincts is also key. Mentorship plays a significant role in this industry, which we value greatly.”
Neora’s business model is centered around mentorship, and they are proud supporters of philanthropic organizations that promote it. According to Olson Rourke, a mentor can guide personal and professional growth, which is vital for success. “With a mentor’s feedback, you’ll be able to identify your blind spots and ask the right questions,” Amber says, “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of having several mentors, and each one has helped me develop into a more well-rounded leader. Building relationships with mentors with different strengths and skill sets is critical for success in any role.”
As you can see, Amber has juggled many roles throughout her career. She has been a mother, a wife, and a business owner for over a decade. And as her business continues to grow, she is still finding new ways to be successful. “The secret to success is being able to do it all,” she shares. “You have to be able to prioritize, and if you do, you can achieve anything. It’s also important to remember that success doesn’t come from one thing but from a formula of things. At work, it’s important to be driven and committed to the goal. When you get home, make sure you are making time for your family and friends. That way you build a support system that can help you through anything when you need it.”
