Bozena Mailloux embraced a bold career reinvention, proving that it’s never too late to follow your passion. By shifting her mindset, overcoming self-doubt, and leaning into mentorship, she transformed challenges into opportunities and built a life aligned with her authentic self. Her journey is a testament to courage, resilience, and the power of believing in yourself.
“Reinvention starts when belief becomes stronger than fear.”
What mindset shift was most crucial in embracing a completely new career path?
The most crucial mindset shift often involves letting go of the fear of failure and uncertainty. When I was transitioning to a new career, I had to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Embracing a growth mindset, where you believe in your ability to learn and adapt, enables you to approach unfamiliar situations with curiosity and resilience. That shift encouraged me to take calculated risks, seek out new experiences, and remain open to feedback, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment and success in my new path. Believing in your own passion and believing in yourself is the same thing that we need to have to build anything that we want. Knowing that there will be failures and you will be hit with your worst while creating as that’s just how it goes. So you build bigger and you get more confident from never giving up because of something that you believe in.
How do you define personal success beyond societal expectations?
Personal success is a belief and a worthiness in yourself, something we need to have number one. A passion, desire in something that we believe in and create it. It goes beyond societal benchmarks like wealth, status, or job titles. Instead, it encompasses achieving a balanced life that aligns with one’s passions, cultivating meaningful relationships, and making a positive impact on others. Personal success involves self-awareness and the ability to set and pursue goals that resonate personally, whether that means finding joy in creative endeavors, achieving work-life balance, or contributing to the community. Ultimately, it’s about living authentically and feeling a sense of purpose in your journey.
Can you share a moment when self-doubt almost held you back and how you overcame it?
Throughout my journey in pursuing my career on my own, especially starting at a later age, I encountered numerous moments of self-doubt. I often questioned my worthiness and whether I had the strength to succeed. There were times when I felt uncertain and lingered in self-doubt, unsure of how to move forward.
However, I eventually realized that the key to overcoming these feelings lay in my deep belief in my aspirations and the vision I held in my heart. Embracing my authentic story and sharing my experiences not only helped me connect with others but also empowered me to confront my doubts head-on. By focusing on what truly resonated with me, I found the strength to push through those challenges. My journey has taught me that believing in oneself and being true to one’s story can be incredibly powerful in overcoming self-doubt.
What role has mentorship played in your transformation journey?
Mentorship has been instrumental in my personal and professional development. While I initially embarked on my journey independently, I recognized the immense value of investing in a mentor who could guide me toward my goals. This support has been crucial in navigating areas where I lacked knowledge, including mental and emotional resilience, as well as the essential tools and networking opportunities needed for my career advancement.
The impact of mentorship extends beyond just skill acquisition; it has fundamentally shaped my mindset and approach to life. Each day, I strive to embody the lessons I’ve learned and to share my authentic story with others. I firmly believe that my current success is a direct result of the guidance and encouragement I’ve received from my mentors. Without their support, I would not be where I am today.
How do you approach building a personal brand that aligns with your authentic self?
Building a personal brand that resonates with my authentic self begins with a simple yet profound principle: just be yourself. Sharing my true story—reflecting on my experiences, challenges, and triumphs—allows me to connect with others genuinely. This authenticity showcases not just who I am, but also the passion I have for my journey.
As someone who began my career later in life, I’ve encountered the misconception that success in certain industries is reserved for the younger generation. However, I’ve chosen to challenge that belief. Age should never dictate one’s aspirations. If you have a passion and a desire to pursue something meaningful, it’s essential to go for it, regardless of age.
My own journey has been filled with struggles and setbacks, but these experiences have only strengthened my resolve. Living proof of what it means to chase dreams and create something from the heart makes it easier to build a brand that truly represents me. By embracing both the highs and lows, I can inspire others and demonstrate that success is attainable at any age. Ultimately, when your brand aligns with your authentic self, it naturally resonates with others, allowing you to fulfill your mission and share your message with the world.
In your experience, what are the unique challenges women over forty face when reinventing themselves?
Fear of starting over many women feel a sense of fear or anxiety about the idea of starting anew. They may question whether it’s too late to pursue a new path or venture, especially if they have spent years in a different career or role. Financial concerns and financial insecurity can be a significant barrier. Women may doubt their ability to launch a business or project due to perceived financial limitations, leading to hesitation in taking the first step. Self-Doubt and worthiness prevalent challenge is the feeling of unworthiness. Women often struggle with beliefs that they may not be valued or that others will not see the worth in their skills and experiences. This lack of confidence can prevent them from pursuing opportunities that align with their passions.
Support and resources many women feel isolated and may not know where to seek support or guidance. The absence of a robust support system can make the journey toward reinvention feel daunting.
Despite these challenges, it’s crucial to recognize that a mindset shift can make a significant difference. By cultivating self-belief and embracing the notion that it is possible to reinvent oneself at any stage of life, women can unlock their potential and pursue their aspirations with renewed vigor. It’s about reframing the narrative and understanding that age is not a barrier but an asset filled with experience and wisdom.
How do you measure the impact of your courses and masterclasses on women’s lives?
I measure the impact of my courses and masterclasses on women’s lives through the authenticity of my own journey. Each course reflects my personal experiences and the challenges I’ve overcome to reach where I am today. By sharing my truth, I aim to inspire women around the world, motivating them to believe in themselves and in their ability to pursue their passions, regardless of their age or background.
I emphasize that it’s entirely possible to have multiple passions and careers at any stage of life. My own story, starting from a small town and navigating a career path often associated with younger individuals, serves as proof that determination and belief can lead to success. If I can achieve my dreams, then any woman can, too. My goal is to equip them with the tools and mindset to pursue their desires and create the life they envision for themselves.
What advice would you give to someone hesitant to pursue their passion later in life?
It doesn’t matter what age you are; you should pursue the passion that’s in your heart. The key is to believe in yourself and what fuels that passion. Once you have that belief, you’ll realize that anything is possible. You must ignore the outside noise and the doubts from others. Focus on what feels right in your soul.
As you navigate this journey, remember that believing in your worthiness is crucial. You may face struggles and hardships, but that doesn’t mean you won’t succeed—it just means you’re still on the path to growth. Embrace the challenges, as they are part of your journey towards achieving the passion you desire. It’s all about the belief that you can do it, no matter where you are in life.
How has your past career in modeling influenced your approach to mentorship?
My past career in modeling has significantly influenced my approach to mentorship in several ways. Initially, my mentor encouraged me to start mentoring because I had invested in myself full-time, both internally and externally. If I hadn’t made that investment and sought guidance, I wouldn’t have achieved my modeling career or become a CEO of my own business, which is currently in pre-launch.
Starting my modeling career in my late 30s demonstrates that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. I believe that anyone can achieve what they desire if they first invest in themselves and build internal confidence. Sharing my authentic story has resonated with many, helping both women and men around the world.
Modeling is often associated with starting in your teens, but I show that success can come at any age. My experiences taught me the importance of learning PR, networking, and finding the right professionals in the industry. Being older allowed me to be more aware of what to look for, which is an advantage I share with my mentees.
As a mentor and life strategist, I help others see their potential and build belief in themselves, especially when they struggle with self-doubt. My journey serves as proof that with dedication and self-investment, anyone can achieve their goals. I love guiding people to find their faith and belief, helping them realize that they, too, can overcome obstacles and succeed.
What is one habit or practice that keeps you grounded while balancing multiple priorities?
A great habit to stay grounded while juggling multiple priorities is dedicating time to meditation in silence for 30 to 60 minutes. This practice allows you to center your thoughts and clear mental clutter. Additionally, affirmations and journaling can reinforce positive mindsets and clarify your goals. Engaging with educational books not only broadens your knowledge but also inspires growth. Daily mindset work—focusing on your beliefs and desired outcomes—can be incredibly powerful, as the words you choose shape your reality and keep you aligned with your aspirations.
“It’s never too late—passion and courage always find a way.”
