Building a Business on Freedom, Alignment, and Trust: A conversation with Tracey Mylecharane
One of the things I love most about running Accounted For You is the incredible business owners I get to work alongside. They’re out there making bold moves, navigating the highs and lows, and building businesses that truly reflect their values.
Tracey Mylecharane, the powerhouse behind TM Legal Atelier, is one of those people. With more than 20 years in the legal industry, including time as a partner at previous firms, Tracey has seen the business world from every angle. And just over 5 years ago, she decided to take all her insights and expertise and build a new practice of her own – one grounded in values, alignment and genuine client relationships.
I had the privilege of asking Tracey a few questions about business, freedom and lessons learned along the way. Here’s what she had to share, I know you’ll find her perspective both fresh and deeply insightful!
If you had to choose between having more money or more time, which would you prioritise and why?
What I’ve come to find and agree with is that money buys freedom, and freedom means having real control over your time. While it might seem tempting to chase ‘more time,’ without the financial resources, it’s not truly your time to control. By building up the money, you’re setting yourself up to spend your days your way, not tied to the ticking clock of obligations. In business, securing financial stability first means you’ll ultimately have more freedom to choose how – and with whom – you spend that precious time.
👉 I love how Tracey reframes this, it’s not about choosing one or the other, but about how money can create space for time freedom and choices. Something every business owner can relate to.
What’s the ultimate perk of being your own boss and running your business?
One of the greatest privileges I have as a business owner is the freedom to choose who I work with. This isn’t about filling my calendar – it’s about staying true to my “why.”
By choosing to act for clients who align with my values and purpose, I can bring real, lasting value to those relationships. It’s about being intentional and mindful with my work, making sure each collaboration feels right. This way, I’m not only helping my clients achieve their goals; I’m also building the business (and life!) that truly lights me up.
👉 This is such an important reminder. The right clients don’t only make work easier, they make your business (and your life) more fulfilling.
Let’s go a little behind the scenes so to speak, what are some of the less glamorous aspects of being a business owner people might not talk about?
Being my own boss means the buck stops with me for everything – admin, finances, risk management, marketing, client growth, and, of course, keeping up with professional development.
But the biggest challenge I find is managing my time. ⏰ It’s not a “set and forget” kind of thing, it requires constant adjustment and review on my part. So I’ve learned (and am still learning!) to stay fluid and flexible. Every day is a balancing act, one that doesn’t always come naturally.
👉 So many of us can relate to this, behind the glossy Instagram posts and highlight reels, there’s a lot of juggling and constant adjusting happening.
Can you recall a specific instance where working with us at AFY has made a tangible difference in achieving a goal or reaching a significant milestone in your business journey?
When it comes to achieving my business growth goals, AFY’s quarterly insights and reports make a huge tangible difference. I find it can be far too easy for me to get caught up in the day-to-day, and so when it comes to finances, I sometimes can’t see the forest for the trees. But AFY’s big-picture approach allows me to see exactly where my money is going.
With insights from Lisa and the team, I can make smart, informed choices around my time and investments. This clarity empowers me to make decisions that directly support my growth goals and keep my business on track. Thanks to AFY, I’m building a business that grows in a way that’s aligned with my vision – and I’m grateful for it every quarter!
👉 I love this – having an outside perspective is so valuable when you’re deep in the day to day of your own business.
Now being able to reflect, what advice would you give to your past self before diving into business ownership?
If I could go back and share one piece of advice with my past self before diving into business ownership, it would be just because you do business with someone doesn’t mean they’re your friend. Business relationships are powerful, but they thrive when you have clear boundaries and stay true to your instincts.
Trust yourself every step of the way, and don’t be afraid to prioritise what feels right. Building a business is as much about honouring your values as it is about growth – and keeping those boundaries is key to doing both.
👉 Boundaries are everything, and Tracey summed it up perfectly here!
Where do you see your business in the next 5 years?
Looking forward, I can honestly say I’m here for more of the same. The last five and a half years have been a privilege, working alongside incredible business owners who inspire me every day. I’m grateful to have surrounded myself with people who lift me up, keep me grounded, and remind me why I do what I do (and this most certainly includes AFY!).
In the next five years, my goal is simple. Keep building on this foundation, keep working with aligned clients, and keep growing alongside people who share my values!
👉 I love this. Sometimes, growth isn’t about chasing the next big thing. It’s about doubling down on what’s already working and continuing to grow in alignment.
Tracey’s journey is such a great reminder business isn’t about chasing every opportunity, but about staying aligned with your values, setting clear boundaries and building strong support systems around you – including your finances! Her perspective is proof that when you combine experience with honest intention, you create a business that truly works for you.
Connect with Tracey: Tracey is passionate about supporting business owners with practical, values driven tailored legal advice. And you can connect with her here:
Website: TM Legal Atelier
Instagram: TM Legal Atelier
LinkedIn: Tracey Mylecharane
