What truly separates thriving franchisees from the rest is mindset: the courage to change direction, the willingness to learn and the drive to build something of their own.
Here, Cheryl Harper, Managing Director of Greensleeves Lawn Care, shares the journeys of three franchisees who joined the brand at very different stages of life and business – and how their experiences reveal three lessons every aspiring franchisee should know.
Lesson 1: The right time to start is when you’re ready for change
After more than two decades in the fast-paced world of City broking, Dan Murfet decided it was time for something new. His move into franchising wasn’t about escaping a career, but finding a better balance between work and life.
“I wanted something completely different – something that would get me outdoors, meeting new people and having real, everyday conversations,” he said. “What really appealed to me about Greensleeves was the self-employed aspect – the idea of building something for myself, having full control and being hands-on in driving its success.”
Dan’s story reminds us there’s rarely a perfect moment to make a change. The right time is when you realise that what once motivated you no longer does. Franchising offers a structured path to start fresh – combining the support of an established brand with the independence of business ownership.
Lesson 2: Experience is your greatest asset
After nearly 30 years in finance, Mark Hull swapped spreadsheets for soil when he launched his South Glasgow franchise. Like many professionals making a big career change, he wondered whether his background would really help him.
“I’ve always worked hard to help other businesses grow – now I wanted to put that energy into growing something for myself,” he said.
It didn’t take long for Mark to realise that the skills developed in corporate life – leadership, organisation, and communication – were exactly what he needed to build a successful local business. What he didn’t know, the franchise taught him.
“The support has been brilliant,” he added. “Everyone at head office has been so helpful, and the other franchisees have been great too. You’re running your own business, but it never feels like you’re on your own.”
Mark’s story proves that franchising isn’t about starting from scratch – it’s about applying what you already know in a new way, while being open to learning the rest.
Lesson 3: Growth is a mindset, not a milestone
When John Lilburne took over his resale territory in Staffordshire, he already knew the brand well from his time employed at head office. But ownership brought a new challenge – turning knowledge into leadership.
Within a year, he’d expanded into new areas, created jobs, and built a loyal customer base.
“It’s never just about selling for me – it’s about helping people,” he said. “Even if someone isn’t a paying customer yet, I’ll always share advice to help them get the best results.”
That service-first mindset has shaped his business. John and his team take pride in the small things – bringing in bins on wet days, helping older clients, supporting local events. Those moments of care have built a business rooted in community and trust.
John’s journey shows that growth isn’t a target to hit – it’s an attitude. The franchise provides the structure, but it’s the people who give it heart.
Lesson 4: The lifestyle shift is real – and rewarding
Though each of these franchisees began from a different place, they’ve all reached the same conclusion: life feels better now.
Dan loves the freedom that comes with running his own business. “Getting outside, meeting people, and becoming part of the local community – it’s only just begun for me, but I already know it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
For Mark, the change has been transformative. “Now I’m outside all day, seeing the difference we make to customers’ lawns – and I’m doing over 20,000 steps a day! I feel fitter, happier, and more fulfilled. It’s hard work, but it’s the good kind – the kind that makes you proud at the end of the day.”
For all three, the move from office life to business ownership has brought renewed purpose and connection. Franchising has allowed them to shape careers that fit around their lives, rather than the other way around. It’s a reminder that success isn’t only measured by income or expansion, but by the satisfaction of doing something you genuinely enjoy.
When you find the right opportunity, franchising can deliver not just profit, but fulfilment – and a lifestyle that truly feels like your own.
One destination
The journeys of Dan, Mark, and John show that franchising is never a one-size-fits-all path. Yet despite their different beginnings, they’ve each uncovered valuable lessons along the way – about timing, experience, growth, and lifestyle.
Together, their stories reveal what franchising is really about: creating a business that reflects who you are and how you want to live. Because when your work aligns with your values and lifestyle, success follows naturally. And that’s what makes franchising so powerful – it offers not just a new career, but a new way to live it.
This article comes courtesy of Greensleeves, a lawn care franchise with 95 territories across the UK. Greensleeves provides year-round lawn care services through its national network of franchisees.
