Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Andrea Dorman, Founder of Bodywise Health & Rehab, located in Ancaster, ON, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own Bodywise Health & Rehab, a multi-disciplinary health care clinic. We have Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Registered Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. We are rehab-focused, so we will provide home rehab to minimize having to come for treatments and prevent recurring injuries. We treat anyone from kids to seniors, athletes, and anyone in between. We have specialties in Concussion management, TMJ (jaw) issues, and women's health, among many others!
Tell us about yourself
I have been working as a Chiropractor for 15 years. I was really interested in biomechanics and the way people move in University when I took Kinesiology, so this career just felt like a great fit, which it is! I opened my business five years ago as a sole practitioner and expanded into a Clinic in 2019. Every day I love coming to work, knowing that I will be helping to make someone's day more tolerable if they are in pain. Most people will leave feeling much better than they do when they walk in and leave with tools to help them continue to feel better, which is a great feeling. Knowing that people trust me to help them is very rewarding.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is having my clinic as a reputable clinic in town where people trust that they will be taken care of. I work with an amazing group of professionals who make every day enjoyable to come to work. I have loved the knowledge base that I have as a business owner, in so many aspects of running the clinic, including accounting and bookkeeping, and even dealing with people daily. I love going home to my kids, knowing that I am setting an example for them to work hard and never give up.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It's hard to balance work and home life sometimes. There are always things that come up that have to be dealt with, not always at the most convenient times! I have three kids who are all busy, so it can be stressful, but I can also make my own hours and enjoy my kids whenever I choose if need be!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your research and ask a lot of questions. My knowledge about many different things has increased because I ask questions until I understand. I was shy to do that at first, but people are very happy to help if you need it.
- Be kind and patient - when things come up that are stressful or dealing with difficult people or situations, being kind and patient benefits you. There have been many moments that I have been complimented on my handling of situations because I was able to step back and take a deep breath before dealing with the problem. People are more willing to help someone who is calm and rational.
- Take deep breaths in the hard times and enjoy the great times. There will be many ups and downs, but knowing how to handle them calmly will get you through. If you can take a deep breath before handling things, you are calmer and will make better decisions. Then, when better times come, you can look back and see what you have accomplished and be proud of yourself.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
You can do it! If you have a passion for something, go for it. I didn't think I could do what I do, but I'm doing it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.bodywiseancaster.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bodywisehealthaus/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodywisehealthandrehab/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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