For over 20 years, Reem Borrows worked in the Pharmaceutical Industry and Senior Leadership Roles, leading, and developing effective teams and individuals across the areas of Sales, Sales Effectiveness, Marketing and Training. She subsequently ventured into entrepreneurship with Dreem Coaching and Consulting, prioritising heart-centered Leadership, Strengthening Resilience, and Sales Excellence.
Reem’s authenticity as a leader, her business acumen, mindset development strategies, and her dedication to achieving results, set the foundation for her work with individuals and teams, as well as both small and large corporations in helping them to realise their full potential and achieve greater success.
As a highly sought-after coach, Reem cultivates the principles, strategies, and fundamentals of a winning mindset within her mentorship of individuals, teams, and businesses, and specifically in educating people on how to find their true calling and unleash their complete potential. Reem fervently believes that “beautiful things happen, and amazing results unfold when you bring a group of people together and work with them to become the best at what they do.”
For more details, visit her website here.
Today we sit down with Reem to learn a bit more about her journey as an entrepreneur.
Q. What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
Reem: After spending over two decades climbing the ladder in corporate environments, which I loved, I reached a point where I craved more and was looking for a greater sense of purpose. This desire stemmed from my deep-seated passion for leadership and the pursuit of excellence. I wanted to have a more direct impact on individuals and teams, with balance, focus and flow.
Recognising this, I decided to venture into entrepreneurship. I founded Dreem Coaching and Consulting with the clear intention of creating a platform where I could leverage my expertise to help empower others. This meant providing practical guidance, tools, and strategies to help individuals and teams unlock their full potential.
My belief in the inherent capabilities of people to overcome challenges and achieve their goals serves as the driving force behind my work. I am committed to fostering environments where growth, resilience, and success thrive. This transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship represents a journey marked by courage, adaptability, and determination to pursue meaningful heart-centred endeavours.
Q. How did you get started?
Reem: Before launching Dreem Coaching and Consulting, I was climbing the corporate ladder for over two decades. While I enjoyed many aspects of my job, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. I yearned for more autonomy, creativity, and a deeper sense of purpose.
The idea for Dreem Coaching and Consulting came to me gradually, as I reflected on my own experiences and passions. Over the years, I developed a knack for leadership, resilience-building, and sales excellence. These were areas where I felt most fulfilled and where I saw the greatest potential for making a difference.
What inspired me most was the desire to empower others. I had witnessed firsthand the transformative power of coaching and mentorship in my own career, and I wanted to pay it forward. I believed that everyone had untapped potential waiting to be unleashed, and I wanted to be a catalyst for that transformation.
So, armed with my experiences, passions, and a clear vision, I took the leap into entrepreneurship with Dreem Coaching and Consulting. It was a decision fueled by an ingrained desire to make a meaningful impact and to create a business that aligned with my values and aspirations.
Reem: While the journey has been filled with its share of challenges and uncertainties, it has also been incredibly rewarding, fulfilling, and inspiring. Starting Dreem Coaching and Consulting was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Leaving behind the predictability of my corporate job to dive into the unknown of entrepreneurship brought up a whirlwind of emotions.
First off, there was the fear of failing. It’s scary to invest time and money into something uncertain, knowing it might not pan out. But I reminded myself that setbacks are part of the game, and each stumble is a chance to learn and grow.
Then there was the uncertainty. Unlike the structured routine of my corporate gig, being my own boss meant facing a lot of “I don’t knows.” But instead of letting it overwhelm me, I saw it as an opportunity to get creative and think outside the box.
Loneliness was another tough one. Working solo meant missing out on the office banter and support. But I made an effort to reach out to other entrepreneurs, join online communities, and attend networking events. Having that support system made a world of difference.
Despite the emotional rollercoaster, I pushed through with determination and a clear vision for Dreem Coaching and Consulting. By acknowledging and dealing with my emotions head-on, I built resilience and learned to roll with the punches. And in the end, it’s been a journey of growth, learning, and fulfilling my dreams. Moreover, I had the help and support of key people who believed in me along the way. Without them, I would not be where I am today. I’ve had some incredible support and their belief in me is what kept me going during the tougher times.
Q. What is the most memorable thing you’ve done since you started your business?
Reem: One of the standout moments since starting my business has been the realisation of just how much is out in the world. I went from what was a seemingly “biggish fish” in a small pond to becoming a tiny fish in a vast ocean. It’s funny, I didn’t even realise I was swimming in a small pond until I left the corporate world!
Since then, I’ve had some incredible experiences. I’ve learned from and worked with some of the brightest minds, like Bob Proctor, and even got involved on executive boards for both business and humanitarian causes. I’ve authored and published books, seen my articles published in magazines all over the globe, and worked with clients from the USA to Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, Malaysia, Canada, and more.
My learning curve has been steep, but it has been so rewarding. Meeting amazing people and making connections I never even dreamed of has been mind-blowing. I’m constantly thinking of new ideas and feeling grateful for all the opportunities out there waiting for me to explore and grow into. I realise the only limitation there is , is the one we put on ourselves.
Q. What is one book you recommend, and why?
Reem: One book that I’d definitely recommend is “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle. It’s been a game-changer for me, both in my business and in my personal life.
This book is all about living in the moment and being present. As entrepreneurs, we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle, stressing about the future or dwelling on the past. But “The Power of Now” reminds us to focus on the present moment, which can help reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve decision-making.
It’s got practical tips and exercises that are easy to apply in your day-to-day life. Plus, it’s a great reminder to slow down and appreciate the little things, which can make a big difference in both your business and your overall well-being.
Q. What are your top 3 favourite online apps, tools or resources and what do you love about them?
Reem:
- Task Manager (like Trello or Asana): When I first started, I loved using these apps to keep myself organised. They’re perfect for breaking down my to-do lists and projects into manageable chunks, assigning tasks to team members if I have any, and setting deadlines. They’re like my virtual assistants, helping me stay on top of everything and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. As the team has grown we have moved over to Microsoft Teams.
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn is my go-to platform for professional networking and development. It’s like the Facebook of the business world, where I connect with other professionals in my industry, share interesting articles and insights, and even look for job opportunities or new clients. It’s an invaluable tool for staying connected and showcasing my expertise to potential clients or employers.
- Canva: Canva is a lifesaver when it comes to creating eye-catching graphics. As someone who’s not a graphic designer, I love how easy it is to use with its wide range of templates and design elements. Whether I need to whip up a flyer for an event, a social media post, or a presentation slide, Canva has everything I need. It’s like having my graphic designer right at my fingertips. With the growth we have had at Dreem Coaching and Consulting, we have dedicated resources now using this app, freeing me up to spend more time delivering sessions, and trainings and creating more programs and content.
Q. In terms of legacy, what is the mark you’d like to leave on the world?
Reem: The mark I’d like to leave on the world is one of empowerment and inspiration. I aspire to be someone who makes a positive impact on the lives of others, helping them realise their full potential and achieve their dreams.
Through my work as an entrepreneur, coach, and mentor, I hope to leave behind a legacy of resilience, growth, and transformation. I aim to help empower individuals to believe in themselves, pursue their passions, and overcome obstacles with courage and determination.
Additionally, I aim to contribute to meaningful change on a larger scale, whether it’s through philanthropic endeavours, advocacy for social justice, or supporting initiatives that promote Freedom, liberation, and justice for all on equal terms.
Ultimately, I would like my legacy to be one of kindness, compassion, and making a difference in the lives of others, with an open heart. I hope to inspire future generations to lead with integrity, empathy, and a commitment to creating a better world for all. Through heart-centred leadership, I recognise that we no longer have room for partial leaders and we need to help create whole leaders at all levels so help us display “Grace Under Pressure” as Earnest Hemingway so eloquently described it.
Q. In one sentence, what’s the best advice you’d give to someone just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey?
Reem: The key to success for someone just starting on their entrepreneurial journey is to stay focused on their vision, remain resilient through challenges, and never underestimate the power of perseverance, with emotional management and consistency being crucial factors.
To keep up to date with Reem and her journey, connect with her on LinkedIn.