by Alex Young, Managing Director at Projects
The flexible workspace industry is evolving rapidly, presenting both unique challenges and exciting opportunities for professionals looking to make their mark. In this blog, we sit down with Alex, MD of Projects, to discuss her journey in the flex industry, the lessons she's learned and her advice for those looking to grow their careers.
From overcoming imposter syndrome to navigating work-life balance and mentorship, Alex shares real-world insights on standing out and succeeding in this ever-changing space.
What’s been the biggest thing that has helped you get to where you are in your career, and what advice would you give to someone looking to take a similar path?
Alex Young: Taking full responsibility for my own success. No one is going to hand you opportunities - you have to seek them out, put yourself forward, and back yourself first before expecting others to do the same. Step outside your comfort zone, get involved in conversations where you need to work to keep up, and always be learning. Some of the best career moments happen when you push yourself into spaces that feel just beyond your current ability.
Beyond that, relationships are everything. Not just with senior leadership or decision-makers, but with everyone; junior team members, landlords, contractors, local businesses, partners, members, even competitors. Every relationship you build matters in the long run, and it also makes work more fulfilling. The more you invest in your network, the more opportunities naturally come your way.
What’s one risk you took that didn’t pan out, and how did you turn that disappointment into a learning experience?
Alex Young: Back in 2016, while at university, I entered a startup competition with an idea for a desk booking platform for students and freelancers. The people running the programme kept telling me it wouldn’t work and that I should focus on a digital product that didn’t require any physical space. So, instead of pushing forward, I stopped exploring the idea. Looking back now, with so many operators in this market, I still believe it could have worked at the time.
This isn’t so much a risk that didn’t pan out but a risk I didn’t take. I’ve learnt not to let people put you off trying something, even if they’re older or more experienced. Advice is valuable, but sometimes you have to trust your gut and go for it. If something excites you and you see the potential, explore it fully - you don’t want to look back and wonder, what if?
Have you ever been affected by imposter syndrome, and if so, what strategies do you use to combat it?
Alex Young: Yes. What’s helped me is focusing on evidence rather than feelings. When I doubt myself, I look at what I’ve already achieved and think about the people who trust me. I remind myself that confidence doesn’t mean never feeling unsure - it means moving forward even when you do.
I also have a technique which helps: I focus on how good I’ll feel when whatever is making me feel anxious is in the past and I’ve done the thing. Allowing myself to imagine that feeling in the present moment helps override the nerves, it’s almost a manifestation of that positive feeling.
Can you share a moment where you had to assert yourself in a tough situation? How did you handle it, and what did you learn?
Alex Young: When working for another provider, finalising plans for a new space, there was a moment where some key stakeholders were pushing for decisions that didn’t align with the long-term vision for the company. They wanted to prioritise revenue in a way that would negatively affect the majority of the members who’d eventually be using the space.
I had to push back, even though it was uncomfortable. it was a hill I was happy to die on. I prepared, backed my stance with data, and communicated clearly. For me, confidence comes from preparation, and the ability to challenge decisions constructively is crucial for leadership.
Have you ever doubted whether this industry was right for you? How did you bounce back from that doubt?
Alex Young: Yes, 100%. Let’s be real, this industry is so full-on. Unless you've worked in it, you don’t fully understand just how many hats you have to wear. At one point, after burning out, I questioned whether I could keep going. But I realised that I hadn’t fallen out of love with the industry - I’d just stopped looking after myself properly. There is no other industry that excites me as much as this one, but too much of a good thing is never good if you don’t have the right balance. I had to reframe how I approached work, set better boundaries, and prioritise my own well-being. Bouncing back meant reminding myself why I love what I do and making sure I could sustain it for the long run.
Work-life balance is often talked about, but do you think it’s realistic in the coworking industry? How do you avoid burnout?
Alex Young: It’s challenging but it’s definitely possible. The key is setting non-negotiables. I know that if I don’t take care of myself, I can’t perform at my best. I prioritise sleep, exercise, and time with people who matter to me.
I also believe that boundaries don’t have to be rigid—they just have to be intentional. Recognise the rhythms of your work, plan ahead, and don’t be afraid to step away when needed.
Have you ever faced assumptions or stereotypes because of your gender, and how did you respond to or challenge them?
Alex Young: All. The. Time. I’d go as far as to say that 99% of men emailing me assume I am a man before they meet me because they would never assume a woman would be the MD. I also get discriminated against as a younger leader.
Unfortunately, if I attend a work meeting with a male colleague, despite those present knowing my role within the company, I rarely get spoken to at all. The way I’ve handled it is not letting it get under my skin.
I can let my results speak for themselves.
Rather than focusing on proving people wrong, I focus on building relationships with people I actually want to work with, those who value me and would do no matter my age or gender. That said, I also call things out when necessary-it’s important to challenge biases when we see them.
Have mentors played a big role in your career? What’s the best way to approach someone you admire for mentorship?
Alex Young: Definitely, though none have been formal mentors. Some of my biggest career breakthroughs have come from insights shared by mentors. I’ve found that people are always willing to help if they see you’re genuinely invested. Engage with their work, ask thoughtful questions, and build a relationship before making an ask.
What do you wish you knew at the start of your career that would have made your journey into flex a little easier or faster?
Alex Young: That you can’t wait for others to put you forward for things or always expect them to have your best interests at heart. Advocate for yourself, create your own opportunities, and set your own boundaries. Be proactive about learning, putting yourself forward, and making career moves that serve you.
Oh, and also, folder your emails. I spent my first year in flex with every email living in my inbox forever, and I genuinely don’t know how I managed. Now I know how much calmer everything feels with a neat inbox!