Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fitness and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erin Landsee of Erin Landsee Yoga, located in Iowa City, IA, USA.

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

I'm an independent yoga instructor who helps people from all walks of life learn to practice yoga skillfully and confidently! The heart of my work is delivering high-quality yoga instruction and education to anyone with the desire to learn, regardless of age, experience, body type, or socioeconomic status. I love helping people feel better in their bodies and minds and learning simple tools from yoga to make life easier!

Tell us about yourself

I discovered yoga in my late twenties when I was struggling with infertility and depression. It was a lonely season in my life, and I tried yoga because I thought it might help relieve some of the stress I was experiencing. Yoga quickly became a safe haven for me during that time, and I ended up on a transformational path that has impacted my entire life. My own story is the reason I teach and share yoga as widely and accessible as I can. There is nothing more powerful than feeling at home in one's body and at peace in one's mind. There is so much within our control in this life, and yoga helps us discover that truth. My job as an instructor is to help people be on their own path and uncover how yoga can work for them in their own lives.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has been moving my business online! Before the pandemic, I was teaching in person only, and I REALLY resisted moving my classes online. But as the months of early COVID-19 went on, I realized that if I wanted to teach, I HAD to do it online. It turned out to be the best way for me to offer yoga accessibly - I don't own a studio or rent space, and I don't answer to a boss. There is infinite room in my classes, and that allows me to reach more people with quality instruction. The technology bumps have been stressful at times but so worth it!

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

The hardest thing for me is all the hats you have to wear. Yes, I'm the yoga teacher. But I'm also a web designer, PR and marketing person, content creator, accountant, customer service representative...the list goes on. I wouldn't trade it because I'm the kind of person who likes to do things myself, but wow. There are just so many hats.

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

  1. PERSIST. You are the only one who will make your business go. You will hit road bumps, and you will get discouraged. You have to wire your brain to keep going. Remember your goals - who are you helping and why? And then keep moving toward those goals no matter how many times you have to regroup or start over.
  2. You can learn. I promise you will have to learn skills you don't currently have. You can do it! Keep your mind fixed in an "I can do this" state, and take it one small goal at a time. Don't worry if you get overwhelmed or think you can't handle it sometimes. Those feelings and thoughts will pass.
  3. Don't be afraid to work outside the box. If you have an idea and it's different than how others in your field are doing things, that's ok. It's YOUR business! Figure out why you believe in it, and then stay true to your mission. Remember who you are serving and why and keep that at the heart of your work. When you start to get bogged down in the details, and your work stops being enjoyable, it's time to regroup.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://erinlandsee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinlandseeyoga
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinlandseeyoga/

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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