Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with David Holloway, Motivational Speaker & Business Leader, located in Albany, NY, USA.

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

Motivational Speaking/Peak Performance & Professional Development Trainer. Mostly corporate professionals.

Tell us about yourself

What first got me started was the hundreds and hundreds of people telling me to share my story. The story was an "Ultimate Underdog" football story - kinda like the one in the movie Rudy. Where I beat the odds of over 1.5 million and rose from a 6th team walk-on to one of the best in the world (side note: I could not have done this alone), when this happened - the press and media were all over it. The story was huge. And powerful enough to make many students drop out of their college and transfer to the University of Maryland to try and 'make it also. As the story spread around the country - more and more people were asking me how I did it. I would tell them all the secrets. They would thank me and urge me to keep sharing. So I did... and still do.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The biggest accomplishment is being able to serve. To be able to share the secrets of world-class competitors and championship teams with people - will always be #1. I believe that the path to Greatness is to become the servant of many. And, I was taught that the great gifts that we were given - are not complete - until they are shared.

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

After being an entrepreneur for over 15 years now, I'd say one of the main challenges is making sure you're taking time to recharge your batteries. It sounds simple, but it's very easy to take your eye off the ball - when it comes to your self-care. I find that instead of scheduling things - it's much easier for me to just do it every day. That way, I don't have to think about it because it's part of my daily rhythm. So, for example, I make sure I do some form of exercise or recovery every single day. My recovery usually involves 20-30min of deep stretching, deep tissue massage, or an ice bath. One of my friends and mentors would always remind me that - "Self-care... is never selfish!"

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

  1. "School is never out for the Pro's" - invest in your continuing education... and never stop learning (make sure there are fun hobby topics you enjoy learning about also!). Read. Take the classes. Travel. Speak to all kinds of people. Get out, and play in nature.
  2. Find mentors. Seek out people, or groups/ teams, who have done what you want to do, and who you can model. Who does it in an ethical way? *Make sure you do some background checks on them first to make sure they're legit. There are a lot of imposters out there. There are a lot of people giving wrong advice. There are a lot of people who are giving 'health advice' and showing off their bodies on social media - while behind the scenes are taking all kinds of drugs. Also, along these lines, do not try and be an exact copy of someone. There is nothing worse than a complete copycat. It never lasts, and it's not genuine. It's okay to take copy some parts - but make sure you add your own twist to it.
  3. Craft a clear and exciting vision for your business and daily work schedule. Clarity is essential. So is a promised land. It's a must for success over the long term - while maintaining your well-being and relationships. You must know what you want and where you're headed. Those on your teams need to know. You must spend time with your vision throughout the year (not just on the New Year). As many know - "Without a vision... thou people will perish." And, so too will your business perish.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Never discount your voice or your story. It's one of the biggest mistakes I see people make. They discredit and minimize themselves by thinking their story isn't any good. When in fact, it's really one of your great powers. And, if you've never been told before: You are a champion. You have a voice that people need to hear. You have genius inside that can help people in a positive way. You have a great story. You come from a long line of great stories. You matter. And I believe in you & your abilities.

When I tell people that across the globe, some people say, "Ya right David, how can you believe in me? You don't know me. We never even met." Yes, you may be right. But, even if we never have - I still do. The reason I always will is that I believe in - The Mighty Power Of The Human Spirit. I've seen it do soooo many amazing things. Again and again. Time after time after time. So I'd have to be a fool to believe otherwise.

Finally, never give up! Never quit on! The world needs good men and women to continue to 'Hunt Their Greatness' inside and out. And, when we do - we all rise as a people. And, a greater tomorrow awaits!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.davidholloway.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DavidHolloway4
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dxholloway/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dxholloway/

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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