Exclusive Insight: In this captivating nine.com.au series, we delve into the minds of Australia’s most innovative entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs. Discover what fuels their ambitions and the wisdom they have to offer those embarking on their own journeys.

Meet Therese Frangie, who transformed her career path from a high school graduate with no university placements to the helm of Oporto, a leading restaurant brand.

Despite underwhelming HSC results, Frangie pursued and completed a Master of Business Administration while excelling as the Chief Operating Officer at Mad Mex.

Today, she oversees a thriving business that generates substantial annual profits.

Here, she shares the strategies that propelled her success.

How do you start the day to set yourself up for success?

With a morning routine. I am a big believer in managing your cognitive load and eliminating decision fatigue.

I have a morning routine that is posted on my wardrobe that I’ve been following for years now. I no longer look at it, I just go into auto-pilot. I kick off the day at 5am, as this gives me ‘me time’ and allows plenty of time to set myself up for a good day, between parenting and work.

By starting my day in this way I am setting myself up for success because I am reliving my brain from making even micro-decisions before the day really starts.

What are three daily habits you always stick to?

Morning routine: it sends me straight into autopilot so I don’t waste time or energy thinking about what comes next.

Eat breakfast: I need food to function — this one is non-negotiable.

Go to bed early: I usually crash when the kids do. I learned a long time ago that every hour of sleep before midnight is worth two!

Lots of Aussies are looking for a career change. What small action can help them get ahead of other candidates?

Know what you want to be [and] do what you need to do, whether that’s studying, volunteering, or networking, to have what you want.

I’m a big believer in networking. It opens doors, builds confidence, and helps you learn about industries and people you might never have crossed paths with otherwise. You also never know who’s hiring next, or who knows someone who is. There’s no stronger resume than a genuine word of mouth recommendation.

What financial myth did you previously believe that you wish you never bought into?

I used to think all debt was bad. Over time, I’ve learned it’s how you use it that matters.

There’s bad debt that drains you, and good debt that helps you grow, like investing in education, property, or your business. The key is knowing the difference and making sure your money is working for you, not against you.

What do you wish you could tell your 20 year old self?

There will be great days, and not-so-great days. When you’re going through challenges, whether family, relationships or work, remember that everything in life is temporary.

Life will go on. Focus on what you can control. Stay positive. Keep your eyes on your goal. Admit when you’re wrong.

Lean into the discomfort and remind yourself, ‘this is just a speed hump. Life will go on.’