From General Practice to Business: The Unexpected Skills That Made All the Difference
When I started The Highland Weigh, I thought I was stepping into a completely new world. After all, running a business isn’t exactly covered in nursing school. But as the weeks and months passed, I began to see familiar patterns—skills I’d relied on in my years as a general practice nurse were suddenly becoming my greatest strengths as an entrepreneur.
Starting a business is often described as a rollercoaster, and I can confirm that’s absolutely true. One minute, you’re on top of
the world because a new customer loves what you’re doing. The next, you’re juggling a supplier issue, an equipment breakdown, or a team challenge. And through it all, you must keep moving forward—just like in a busy GP surgery, where no two days are ever the same.
1. Presenting a Calm Exterior (Even When You're Panicking Inside)
In general practice, patients come to you with all kinds of concerns—some small, some serious—but no matter what, they need to feel reassured. I quickly learned that even if I was rushing between appointments, running behind schedule, or dealing with unexpected situations, I had to remain calm and in control.
That skill has been invaluable in business. Whether it’s an unexpectedly busy morning, a last-minute problem, or the general unpredictability of running The Highland Weigh, I know that my team and customers look to me for stability. Staying calm, even when things don’t go to plan, helps to keep everything running smoothly.
2. Problem-Solving on the Spot
In general practice, every patient brings a different challenge, and there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether it was managing long-term conditions, reassuring anxious patients, or finding practical ways to improve someone’s well-being, I had to think on my feet and adapt.
Running a business is no different. No two days are ever the same, and problem-solving is constant. From handling stock shortages to figuring out how to make the business more sustainable, I’ve found that my ability to assess a situation, prioritise, and act quickly has been a huge advantage.
3. Working with People (and Actually Listening to Them!)
One of the most important parts of being a general practice nurse was listening—not just to what patients were saying, but to what they weren’t saying. Understanding people’s concerns, building trust, and helping them make informed choices was at the heart of my role.
Now, in business, I use those same skills every day. Whether it’s listening to customers, working with local suppliers, or supporting my team, I know that community and communication are what make The Highland Weigh more than just a café.
4. Resilience and Grit
General practice nursing can be demanding. You’re often stretched, managing multiple priorities, and trying to provide the best care possible under pressure. It teaches you resilience—the ability to keep going, stay positive, and adapt to challenges.
Starting and running a business requires exactly the same mindset. There have been moments of doubt, exhaustion, and unexpected hurdles, but every time I see customers enjoying the space we’ve created, or hear feedback from someone who feels a part of The Highland Weigh community, I know it’s worth it.
5. The Power of Small, Consistent Actions
In healthcare, progress isn’t always about big, dramatic moments—it’s about the small, consistent actions that add up to better long-term outcomes for patients. Encouraging healthier habits, providing reassurance, and making small adjustments to treatment plans all contribute to overall well-being.
The same is true in business. Success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about showing up every day, making small improvements, learning from mistakes, and staying committed to your mission. The little things—greeting customers warmly, serving high-quality coffee, and creating a welcoming space—all add up to something bigger.
Final Thoughts: The Unexpected Bridge Between General Practice and Business
If you’d asked me years ago whether my nursing experience would help me start a business, I probably would have laughed. But looking back, I can see that so many of the skills I developed in healthcare have shaped how I run The Highland Weigh.
Starting a business is challenging, unpredictable, and sometimes overwhelming—but so was my first day in general practice. And just like in nursing, the key is to keep learning, keep adapting, and keep showing up.
So, if you’re thinking about starting your own business, don’t underestimate the skills you already have. You might be more prepared than you think!
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