What My Clients Have Taught Me About Strength and Courage

Real resilience lessons from the people who inspire me most.

When people hear that I’m a resilience speaker and business mentor, they often assume I’m the one doing the teaching. And yes, I share lessons from my journey, multiple chronic illnesses, a cancer diagnosis, an acquired brain injury, and being told I’d never work again.

But here’s the truth: my clients have been my greatest teachers.

Every person I’ve worked with, whether through coaching, publishing, mentoring, or art, has shown me what real strength and courage look like. Not the kind you see in highlight reels, but the kind that shows up quietly, consistently, and bravely in everyday life.

Strength Is Showing Up When It’s Hard

Some of my clients live with disability, chronic illnesses, or past trauma. Others are navigating grief, burnout, or the self-doubt that whispers, “You’re not enough.”

And still, they show up.

They write their stories. They attend workshops. They launch businesses and speak out. They dare to dream even when the world tells them they shouldn’t.

They’ve taught me that strength isn’t the absence of struggle; it’s showing up in spite of it.

Courage Is Found in Vulnerability

I’ve seen people speak on stage while trembling. I’ve seen authors pour their truth onto a page for the first time. I’ve seen creatives take bold steps forward after years of silence.

Every time someone chooses to be vulnerable, to risk being seen, to share their truth, they are choosing courage.

They remind me that courage doesn’t roar. Sometimes, it’s the whisper: “I’ll try again tomorrow.”

We’re All Still Learning

I might wear the title of “speaker,” “coach,” or “mentor,” but I learn something from every client:

• The mum who juggles responsibilities, self-doubt, and endless love

• The survivor who uses writing to reclaim their voice

• The artist who paints through pain

• The entrepreneur who rises after every setback

Their stories fuel mine. Their resilience gives me reason to keep going, even on the tough days.

Final Thoughts

When you work in service to others, it’s easy to believe you’re the one doing the lifting. But more often than not, my clients lift me.

They remind me what matters. They teach me about grit, grace, and the power of human connection. They keep me grounded and inspired.

To everyone I’ve ever worked with: Thank you. You are the reason I do this work. And your courage will stay with me, always.

Want to book Justine to speak at your event on resilience, leadership and lived experience? Contact us today!