Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Emily Ziedman, a freelance writer, Ayurvedic wellness counselor, and nutritionist, based in Carlsbad, CA, USA.

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

I am a freelance writer and holistic nutritionist with a focus on Ayurvedic medicine.

Tell us about yourself

I have always been passionate about holistic health, which to me means living (and, when necessary, healing) in ways that support both the mind and body. I've worked in the wellness industry for over 15 years doing everything from supplement and ingredient sales to one-on-one sessions with clients to managing nutrition communications within an organization. It was after grad school for nutrition, however, that it became clear to me that our food landscape and view on health and wellness needed an overhaul. I decided that instead of just working with clients one-on-one, I wanted to work to support companies that are making a change on a larger scale. Thus began my content writing career.

By reaching out to like-minded companies, I slowly began to build a client base of brands whose products and ideals I stand behind. In addition, I received my Ayurvedic wellness counselor certification, which allows me to work with clients through the lens of Ayurveda for a truly holistic approach.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been writing a book about Ayurveda with an Ayurvedic doctor. With her Ayurvedic expertise and my expertise as a nutritionist and writer, we were able to collaborate and create a book that we hope will help many people that struggle with food, cravings, and general feelings of addiction and discontent. Were it not for the flexibility of my freelance career, I would never have had the time to follow this passion project through. The book will be published within the year.

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

The hardest thing that I've found with being a business owner is the general uncertainty. First, there is the uncertainty that my client load will stay strong enough for me to remain profitable. But there is also uncertainty around the creative aspect. For example, in writing the book, I felt that the material covered was compelling and important — but I didn't have a team behind me cheering me on and validating the work I was creating. To deal with the uncertainty, I just always have to keep coming home to myself and remembering that intuition isn't some silly idea. There is real power in following an aligned path.

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

  1. Only ask advice from people you really want advice from. Everyone has an opinion, but everyone's opinions aren't necessarily valid when it comes to what you want to build. Look for support from people you admire and who you know will be open-minded to your concept instead of seeking out those whom you would like to please.
  2. Remember your "why." There's a reason you decided to do your own thing in the first place, keep it front and center (especially when things get a little shaky). Maybe you're just sick of working for other people, or maybe you know in your bones that you have something unique to offer; whatever the case is — make that your north star, and it will give you the extra push you need as you move through the ups and downs.
  3. Remain flexible. While you may have a specific goal in mind at the outset, it's likely that as you grow and expand, you'll have new ideas and opportunities. It's always useful to have an open mind to whatever may come your way. You never have to give up on your dream, but sometimes dreams evolve, and that's a wonderful thing.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.emilyziedman.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-ziedman-0b157943/

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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