Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Doreen Morrison, Founder of Doreen Fanelli Fitness, Inc., located in York County, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a Certified Life Coach and Nutrition Coach. I've been an online health and fitness coach for the past eight years. I run private support and accountability groups for anyone who wants to improve their health and wellness by learning to live a healthier lifestyle through improving nutrition and increased activity.
Tell us about yourself
I've struggled with weight issues my whole life. I've gained and lost 50 to 100 pounds more than once. I was an elementary school teacher and found myself approaching 290 pounds with a blood pressure of 200/110 and many other health issues looming over me. I was sent home on medical leave and spent the time researching clean eating. I found a sustainable lifestyle that doesn't include eliminating any food groups and allows for snacks and treats. I was able to break my sugar and food additions, stop the emotional eating, and finally lose 140 pounds without restrictive deprivation diets followed by more weight gain.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I was able to replace my teaching income through coaching and move to my dream location in the farmlands of Pennsylvania since I can do my job from anywhere. I'm also very proud that my team has consistently ranked in the top 1% of the company I partner with, Beachbody, for the past eight years.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most rewarding part of this business is helping people get started on their health journey. I love cheering them on and supporting them throughout their progress. The hardest thing is when people think they have to be motivated to get started improving nutrition and fitness and then not start at all. In reality, getting started is just a decision, and when we start to see success, the motivation flows. It's hard to see people that need and want help not accept it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My advice is to think about what you love to do and find something that interests you. Then make a plan for what you want to accomplish, short-term as well as long-term goals. Lastly, take action. The start is what stops people the most. Just take action and don't worry about doing everything perfectly. Messy action is better than inaction.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would welcome the opportunity to help anyone interested in learning to start a health and fitness business while working on their own nutrition. I had no experience when I started and will gladly mentor anyone who has big goals and big dreams.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/doreenfitness
https://www.facebook.com/doreenmorrison.xo
https://www.facebook.com/groups/757379835136756/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doreenmorrison.xo/
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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