Jo Malone CBE

Describe yourself in three words?

Creative, complex and passionate.

When did you know you were interested in making a career out of fragrance?

I didn't set out to make a career in fragrance. I'm very dyslexic, so my sense of smell is very predominant, and it's probably my main sense. I have something called synesthesia, which means my senses are slightly muddled, but I thought at a young age [that] everyone could smell like I could. And then as I got older I realised I actually had something pretty unique and pretty different. I could smell what no one else could smell, and I could create fragrance in my head and make it reality. I don't think you set out to create a global brand; that often happens in time. You just set out to survive in business, and then you set out and create something, and then the world follows you. I think that was very much my story and what has happened to me.

3 tips for staying balanced?

1. Pilates – I love my hour exercise sessions, they de-stress my body and calm my mind

2. Find laughter in every day. Try and find 10 things a day that make you smile (not always easy!)

3. Seek to be inspired by creativity, this makes your mind focus on things that are positive and enhancing.

What’s been your biggest wow moment to date?

Receiving my CBE at Buckingham Palace from HRH The Prince of Wales and then attending my first white tie dinner, I felt like Audrey Hepburn.

What does a typical day look like to you?

I walk the dog in the morning and I love this as it really sets my day on the right path. I then make a fresh red and green juice and have a coffee. I take a few hours to smell fragrance and create, then I may spend an hour or two in the office before heading off to a speaking engagement. At the end of the day I like to go home, light the candles, have dinner with my family and watch a movie. I finish off as I start, by walking the dog!

How do you find inspiration?

Inspiration doesn't land on your doorstep. You have to work at it. You have to activate your imagination, and that's what I do. I often get inspired by other people's entrepreneurial journeys.

When do you feel best in yourself?

After I’ve had my hair coloured and blow dried, I feel a million dollars – thank you Josh Wood!

What would you say to your younger self?

Don’t be in such a hurry, life is a big adventure. Celebrate and cherish every minute.

Favourite workout?

Candle lit Pilates!

Life mantra?

I love a quote by André Gide – ‘Man cannot discover new oceans unless he first has the courage to lose sight of the shore’.

Favourite workout song?

Dancing Queen by ABBA.

Favourite workout song?

I love 80s club classics like Push it by Salt n Pepa. The cheesier the better.

Guilty pleasure?

A full English Breakfast with hash browns and baked beans.

Finally, green juice or cocktails?

A large glass of Rosé Wine, every time.

Find more about Jo at joloves.com. Discover more kickass women at sweatybetty.com/women-rule.