Q & A with Lily Silverton, Mindset Coach

What do you love most about the brand you’ve created? 

I love seeing The Priorities Method  working for people – when they realise the power of thought repatterning and prioritising. It’s a brand that I lovingly created and incorporates so many different parts of me as a person. I’m a mindset and life coach, a stress management consultant, a speaker, journalist, columnist and podcaster – and to put that all into a brand that can help others is pretty special. 

Have you always wanted to work in this industry?

I originally wanted to be a Human Rights lawyer but changed course and worked as a journalist in the Fashion and Arts industry. I made several conscious decisions to transition into the coaching industry by leaving magazines, but also arrived here gradually by first training as a yoga instructor. I often work with creatives and am lucky that my work has grown organically by word of mouth. 

What are you most proud of? 

I’m really proud of my children and love to see them navigating the world – it’s really amazing. I’m also really proud of overcoming my own mental health challenges, and for coming full circle and being in a position to help others to prioritise what’s important and potentially transform their lives. 

What advice would you give to someone keen to start a business but unsure where to begin?

I would say to people to find and follow their passion – but equally consider whether this passion may be better left as a hobby or something solely to enjoy. Finding a balance is really important and knowing where to begin could come with one major decision to make a leap, or it may be a slower process where you run new projects alongside others. 

Who is one of your biggest inspirations – either professionally or personally?

Several different members of my family. My grandmother was one of the most authentic, welcoming and funny people – she inspired me and I think of her often in my work. My father was a writer and inspired me to hone my craft as a journalist. My mother ran her own business so also inspired me to create the life I’m leading today.

If you could attribute your success to anyone who gave you your big break?

I’ve been lucky enough to have friends who’ve offered me opportunities and put my name forward. I was asked to write for a magazine after leaving university, and as a coach I have been privileged to lead workshops for Soho House which has helped me hugely. 

What’s the hardest thing about your job?

I find it hard not to ‘take things home’ with me. I am not a mental health practitioner or a psychiatrist but I still feel deeply about my clients and the work that we do together – so I have to work to find balance. I am continuously working to do my job as a mother well, in addition to running my business. 

Which part of your job do you most enjoy?

I love seeing The Priorities Method work for people. I’ve also created The Journal to make coaching more accessible to people and I love hearing how this has helped people. 

Do you find it easy to balance work and play?

Yes. I play the piano which I love and I am strict about making time for this. I also make sure that I exercise, meditate and I teach one yoga session per month to refugees. I’m lucky enough to work in a specific space in our home which helps to separate work and play (to some extent…).