Sara Davies Didn’t Want Her Kids to ‘Pay the Price’ by Staying on Dragons’ Den
Sara Davies, the well-known entrepreneur and former Dragons’ Den star, recently shared heartfelt insights into her decision to step away from the popular BBC show. After six years of being a Dragon, Sara revealed that her choice was deeply influenced by her desire to prioritize her family and ensure her children didn’t suffer due to her demanding career. In this article, we explore Sara’s journey, the challenges she faced balancing business and family life, and how stepping back allowed her to embrace vulnerability and personal growth.
Why Sara Davies Chose to Leave Dragons’ Den
Sara Davies’ departure from Dragons’ Den was a significant moment for both her and the show’s fans. Known for her sharp business acumen and supportive approach to budding entrepreneurs, Sara had become a staple on the panel. However, behind the scenes, she was grappling with the pressures of juggling multiple responsibilities.
The turning point came when Sara and her husband Simon decided to buy back her company, Crafter’s Companion. This move required her to dedicate more time and energy to the business, making it impossible to continue her role on Dragons’ Den without sacrificing family time. Sara explained, “Simon said, ‘You can’t keep adding more things at the top of the funnel and not expect something to drop out the bottom.’ Something had to give, and I didn’t want my boys to have to pay the price.”
This candid admission highlights the often unseen sacrifices entrepreneurs make. For Sara, the choice was clear: family first. By stepping back, she ensured that her children could enjoy a more present and engaged parent, rather than growing up with a mother stretched too thin by professional commitments.
The Impact of Strictly Come Dancing on Sara’s Life
While Sara’s time on Dragons’ Den was transformative, it was her experience on Strictly Come Dancing in 2021 that truly reshaped her perspective on vulnerability and self-expression. Partnered with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, Sara learned to embrace emotions she had long suppressed in the business world.
Sara admitted that before Strictly, she believed showing emotion was a sign of weakness. “I used to believe I had to dress and act a certain way in business, and that showing emotion was a sign of weakness,” she shared. However, the rigorous rehearsals and live performances gradually broke down her emotional barriers. She started feeling comfortable being vulnerable—not just with Aljaž but also in front of the cameras and live audiences.
This newfound openness helped Sara overcome imposter syndrome, a common struggle among high-achieving professionals. Initially, she questioned her place among the Dragons, wondering why entrepreneurs would choose her over others. But by the end of her tenure, she confidently affirmed, “I’m a bloody good Dragon. Any entrepreneur would be lucky to pick me.”
Despite this growth, Sara remains protective of her emotions in her private life. She revealed that she still hides her tears from her husband, Simon, preferring to deal with stress and emotions on her own to avoid adding to his worries.
Balancing Health, Family, and Business
Sara’s journey also includes a focus on health and self-care. After receiving health warnings related to pre-diabetes, she committed to making positive lifestyle changes. Strength training and running have become integral parts of her routine, helping her feel strong and confident in her body.
This holistic approach to well-being complements her decision to prioritize family and scale back on professional commitments. Sara’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about career achievements but also about maintaining balance and nurturing personal health and relationships.
Conclusion
Sara Davies’ decision to leave Dragons’ Den was driven by her commitment to her family and a desire to avoid letting her children “pay the price” for her busy career. Her story underscores the importance of setting boundaries, embracing vulnerability, and prioritizing what truly matters. Whether it’s stepping back from a high-profile role or learning to express emotions openly, Sara’s journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and parents alike.
If you’re inspired by Sara’s story and want to learn more about balancing career success with family life, stay tuned for more insights and tips. Don’t forget to share this article with others who might benefit from Sara’s inspiring example!
