I set up my first business as a freelance book indexer about 10 years ago when my children (Naomi, 17 & Kimi, 15) were younger. My husband Dave and I, lived away from family so childcare was always a problem. I was a stay at home mum when my girls were born but when they started school I felt I could be doing something more productive with my time than housework! I wanted a career that meant I could still be there for my family and indexing was perfect. However, I always longed to get back to working with horses but couldn’t see how I could make this work (and afford to pay the bills!).

Then, early in 2012 I came across an opportunity to train as an Equine Sports Massage Therapist – my dream job! I could stay self-employed & continue to index books to pay the bills whilst fulfilling my long term goal of getting back to working with horses.

So after an intensive 5 day course (plus many hours of pre-course study in equine anatomy), in March 2012 I qualified as an ESMT and set up my new business.

I love running my own business as I can fit my work in around my family. It’s great to know that I am always there for them even though they don’t need me very much these days! Also, I know that everything I achieve is down to me and no-one else, although when things go wrong (not too often, I hope), there is nobody else to blame!

My long term goal, is to build the equine massage business to a point where I can stop indexing. I enjoy indexing but working with horses is where my heart lies. And to spend your days doing something you love, who could ask for more?

http://www.lyndaswindells.co.uk