In the fast-paced world of wellness and beauty, Amber Olson Rourke stands out as a beacon of inspiration and success. As the co-founder of Neora, a company that has achieved over $2 billion in cumulative sales within its first decade, Olson Rourke’s journey from a young professional to a seasoned entrepreneur offers invaluable lessons for those aspiring to make their mark in the business world.
Olson Rourke’s path to success had its challenges. Early in her career at Neora, she often second-guessed her instincts, deferring to more experienced or outspoken colleagues. “There were so many times where we were sitting at a table and coming up with an idea, and someone who maybe had more experience than me or was more outspoken than me would go one way,” she recalls. “I would just feel in my gut that it wasn’t the right path, but I would let it go and say, ‘They must know better.'” Time and again, she observed that when she ignored her intuition, the outcomes were less than ideal.
This realization marked a turning point in Olson Rourke’s approach to business. She learned to trust her instincts and assert her voice, even when surrounded by more seasoned professionals. Her advice to young women entering the business world is both clear and empowering: “Most people will give you your seat at the table, but we have to learn to trust our voice and not assume that somebody else, just because they have more experience or they’re a male or they have a bigger title, knows more than we do.”
One of the critical strategies Olson Rourke credits for her success at Neora is intentional focus. Rather than attempting to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, she advocates for being fully present in each moment. “I’m huge about being intentional at the moment, managing my schedule tightly and time-blocking everything so I can show up present wherever I’m at,” she explains. This approach allows her to maximize her impact in a business meeting or spending time with her family.
As a working mother, Olson Rourke has also mastered balancing professional and personal life. She dismisses the notion of “mom guilt,” instead embracing a mindset of being exactly where she needs to be at any moment. This attitude allows her to fully engage in her work at Neora and equally present with her family during personal time.
Neora’s mission, encapsulated in the motto “Make People Better,” reflects Olson Rourke’s philosophy of helping individuals become their best versions. This ethos extends to the company’s product development, focusing on innovative, multifunctional items that simplify routines while delivering superior results.
For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Olson Rourke stresses the importance of clarity in business objectives. She advises entrepreneurs to identify their target audience, understand their needs, and develop solutions accordingly. Surrounding oneself with intelligent individuals and trusting one’s instincts are crucial to her success.
Mentorship plays a significant role in Olson Rourke’s approach to business growth at Neora. She believes in the power of guidance from trusted advisors who can provide effective feedback and help navigate blind spots. Building relationships with mentors possessing diverse strengths and skill sets is, in her view, critical to maximizing one’s effectiveness in any role.
Looking to the future, Olson Rourke recognizes the changing dynamics of consumer behavior. With an increasing preference for online shopping and personalized customer service, Neora is well-positioned to meet these evolving needs. The company excels in providing concierge-level service, guiding customers through their health and wellness journeys with tailored advice and support.
Amber Olson Rourke’s journey with Neora is a testament to the power of self-confidence, intentional focus, and adaptability in the business world. Her success story inspires aspiring female entrepreneurs and showcases how staying true to one’s instincts and values can lead to remarkable achievements in the competitive beauty and wellness industry.
As Neora continues to thrive under her leadership, Olson Rourke’s approach to business remains a shining example of navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship while maintaining a balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. Her story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, determination, and a willingness to trust one’s instincts, it’s possible to achieve extraordinary success in the business world while staying true to oneself and positively impacting others.