The power of a positive mindset – Elliott's journey from tennis coach to travel entrepreneur

To celebrate the upcoming launch of our partnership with the High Performance Podcast, we spoke to one of our travel entrepreneurs, Elliott Rouse, to find out how he’s adopted a growth mindset and achieved his business goals. Having joined us at the age of 26 just before Covid hit, Elliott has now amassed over £1m in sales while maintaining the work-life balance he’s always dreamed of having.

Hi Elliott! What were you doing prior to becoming a Travel Counsellor?

I was a physical education graduate, and I’d been a tennis coach for 10 years. I’m ambitious in nature and wanted an opportunity to run my own business in an industry that I’m passionate about.

What was it that attracted you to Travel Counsellors?

It was the community and the support available to business owners. The freedom to work my own hours also really appealed to me, along with the warm welcome I received as soon as I stepped foot in the support centre when I attended a Discovery Day.

What does high performance mean to you?

It means using past experiences – whether positive or negative – to help you achieve your goals in a sustainable and manageable way. For me personally, it’s all about running a successful business and achieving consistent sales, but on my terms and with limited sacrifice to ensure I still have the work-life balance I’ve always strived to have. Being in control of my time was one of the main reasons why I wanted to work for myself.

How important is mindset when it comes to running and growing your business?
It’s massive. It’s the biggest thing needed to ensure you achieve what you set out to achieve. I constantly fill my brain with positive and impactful things, such as podcasts, books, and inspirational people. By doing this, I continue to grow while gaining the information and motivation required to drive my business forward.

How have our support teams helped you get your business to where it is today?
They’ve been there for me whenever I’ve needed help. They’ve always been approachable and understanding. They’ve allowed me to propel my business forwards, and in some cases, allowed me the opportunity to get things wrong so I can learn, adapt, and grow.

What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far as a franchisee? How did you overcome it?

We’re all human, and some days are better than others. I would say the challenge has been to maintain motivation and a positive mindset on the days where I have a lull.

Having joined in 2019, I also can’t overlook the pandemic. One thing I’m super proud of is how I navigated this. I used this time to upskill myself and stay visible to my customers. I also enhanced my business knowledge and identified ways in which I could grow my franchise once travel could resume. I surrounded myself with people who were ‘fountains’ of knowledge, support, and positivity.

What, or who, inspires you to be your best?

First and foremost, myself. I know I have it within me to achieve. Podcasts are also a huge source of inspiration. I love hearing from successful people who have been there and done it. I’m also inspired by top-performing Travel Counsellors, colleagues at the support centre, and my family and close friends who all believe in me.

How have you grown as a person since becoming a Travel Counsellor? Are there any life lessons it’s taught you?

It’s taught me that there’s no straight line to success and that the bumps in the road are the best learnings you get in life. The struggles are what drives performance. I’ve definitely become more resilient. It’s also taught me that it takes a certain type of person to launch their own business, and only those who fully invest their time and energy into it will achieve.

What’s been your highlight so far as a Travel Counsellor?

There are three highlights. Firstly, I was asked to speak on stage with Jake and Damian at the 2023 Travel Counsellors Conference as part of the High Performance Podcast panel. Secondly, I successfully managed and booked every part of a company’s annual trip for 66 people, with glowing reviews and no hiccups. Finally, I achieved £1m in sales within four years (of which two years were during Covid).

How has being a Travel Counsellor changed your life?

It’s allowed me to understand the world of business and it’s given me the flexibility to work around my home life. This has enabled me to visit new destinations, attend family events, and be more present with my family.

It’s great to what a positive impact it’s had on your life, Elliott. Finally, what advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about becoming a Travel Counsellor?

It’s not easy, but if you have the right attitude, a growth mindset, and are driven to achieve, it’ll be the best decision you make. Be patient, follow the model, and success will come your way.

If you're feeling inspired by Elliott's story, why not take the first step towards achieving your own dreams? Enquire about becoming a Travel Counsellor today and let us help you turn your passion into a successful business venture!