Finding Herself Again – Louise Dalo on Overcoming Perimenopause and Rediscovering Joy at KWL

Starting a full-time job after 22 years running your own business can feel daunting – especially when confidence has taken a serious knock. But for Louise Dalo, who joined KWL in January 2026 as a Contract Assistant, that leap has been truly life-changing.

“I didn’t think I could do it anymore,” Louise admits. “I’d completely shut down. I thought I was just tired or had fallen out of love with my work – but it was actually perimenopause.”

From Avon leader to feeling stuck

Louise built a successful Avon business over more than two decades, leading a network of 250 representatives as a well-known team leader. But gradually, her usual energy disappeared.

“I was always a people person – on the phone daily with my team, motivating them,” she explains. “Then I stopped. I’d pick up to call someone but send a text instead. I didn’t want to leave the house or face the outside world. That wasn’t me.”

Breaking the perimenopause silence

Perimenopause – the hormonal stage before menopause – hit Louise hard.

“There’s not enough awareness,” she says. “I’d heard of menopause, but not really perimenopause. My confidence vanished. I used to deliver training to 30 people happily, but suddenly couldn’t even make a phone call. I worried I’d lost myself completely.”

HRT helped, but Louise knew she needed more than medical support. She needed purpose.

The KWL turning point

Initially looking for part-time work to supplement her income, Louise stumbled across the KWL role.

“Something inside said, ‘Go on, try it. I got a relaxed phone chat with Trina from management, then came for interview expecting formality. Instead, it was just natural conversation with Trina and Tracy who really put me at ease.”

While holidaying in Tenerife, Louise got the offer call asking if she’d like to join Trina’s team “I said, Absolutely, yes! I said without hesitation.”

A supportive new home

Now managing asbestos bookings in KWL’s busy contracts team, Louise has found exactly what she needed.

“I expected to be exhausted juggling this with home life,” she says. “But it’s woken me up. I enjoy coming to work, seeing everyone. The team leader Danielle has been incredible – patient and supportive.”

KWL’s welcoming culture surprised her. “Everyone smiles and says hello, no matter their role. People chat by the coffee machine and I’ve found out they are often senior members of staff. Everyone’s approachable.”

Growth with care

With KWL’s workload growing across bathrooms, gas and asbestos teams, six new Contract Assistants started in January. Management ensured good fit.

“My Team Leader observed the way I worked and changed my role to one where I fitted best. You can ask questions ten times and no one makes you feel silly. That support makes you want to stay.”

Renewed energy

Louise still runs Avon evenings alongside her 37-hour KWL week. “I get home, have tea, then work a couple of hours. It doesn’t feel like hard work anymore – I’ve found my spark.”

She’s joined KWL’s gym benefit too. “Three times weekly is the plan – I’m getting there! It’s lovely having that balance around positive people.”

A message for others

Louise hopes her story encourages women struggling silently.

“So many think they’re just tired or unhappy, not realising it’s hormones. Awareness changes everything. KWL gave me purpose when I felt unemployable. Being valued and learning new things turned everything around.”

“If my story helps one woman feel less alone – or inspires someone to try something new – it’s worth sharing. You might just find yourself again.”

If KWL employees are struggling with perimenopause, other health concerns, of family matters, they are encouraged to speak to their manager or HR for welfare support.