Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Geoff Nicholson, owner of GN Coaching, located in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I'm a mindset and performance expert, and I support business owners and professionals overcome their biggest challenges, bottlenecks, or problems in less time so they can enjoy exceptional results in life and business.

Tell us about yourself

I was originally in the printing industry. But between 2000 and 2006, I suffered from 2 cases of meningitis and then chronic fatigue syndrome, which left me bedbound for a year—followed by being housebound for a further 4. I experienced severe depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, many other mental health issues, and physical issues during my illness.

In Jan 2006, I left the house to commit suicide because I couldn't bear the fact I was holding my wife and kids back in life. It was at this time I experienced a massive crucible moment. I realized I needed to get my life back on track, not just to what it was before I was ill but to a high level.

This is how I found coaching and potential human development. I became consumed in learning how to get my life on track, which quickly became my passion and is one of the key reasons I do what I do. I want to help people become the best they can be and live the best version of themselves, which creates the best life for them and their families.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Surviving, seriously owning a business is not easy. It is one of the most challenging things I have done, but it's the most rewarding. This might sound corny, but being able to work with my clients and support them to achieve their life goals is a massive gift and a privilege.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

If you asked me that at the beginning of my journey, I would have said having to wear so many hats. You are the marketing, sales, IT department, cleaner, and everything in between. Now I would say it is managing time effectively and staying focused on why you started your own business. I see time and time again what happens when people spend too much time focusing on a single aspect. They drop the ball, and it can come with a high cost. The plan is everything, but many people spend more time planning their summer vacation than doing their lives/business.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Get a plan - I am amazed how many people what to achieve success but don't have a defined plan of action. Also, the critical thing is that your plan should also include your personal life, especially if you own your business.
  2. Build a strong support structure. It might be in the form of a coach, mastermind group, board of experts, or just something that allows you to dedicate some time to yourself and your challenges.
  3. Find a way to delegate the tasks and jobs you are weak in as quickly as possible. This allows you to focus all your efforts on the skills and talents you're awesome at.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The big lesson I have learned in life and business is that you can't do it on your own. The EGO might say you can, and I am sure you will try to force ahead. But the biggest sign of courage is to ask for help. You are more likely to achieve your goals quicker. It can produce massive personal growth when you are willing to admit you can't do something.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://www.geoffnicholson.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geoffnicholsonuk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Geoffnicholsonuk/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/geoffnicholsonuk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffnicholsonuk/
Podcast: https://www.successiqpodcast.com/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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