Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melanie Boivin, Founder of ForMe Pilates, located in Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.

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

I am a Pilates instructor. Basically, I teach Pilates to a large variety of people, from community centres to private "at home" clients, generally between 30 and 70 years old. But more specifically, I bring people to a great self-wellness awareness and help them get their freedom of mobility back, balance, and strength. All my classes are filled with some funny stories, anatomy facts, and explanations.

Tell us about yourself

I first got my degree in Public relations and communications. Though I worked in a great business, I felt that I did not fully meet my life purpose. Something was missing… the need of making some direct positive changes in people's lives was so strong that, after giving birth to my son, I decided to go through with a career change. Signed up for my formation with Merrithew and have been living from my passion since then!

The positive changes I can directly witness with so many clients, their smiles, and every story of pain relief, strength gain, and wellness they share about their Pilates journey with me is really something that will keep me going for years!!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being able to work part-time so I am more available for our son's needs. I am also able to take my summers mostly off with some private clients that I can still help with video conferences.

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

The ability to say NO was, at first, a real challenge. Over the years, I learned that I can, and have to, say NO for many reasons. When a client asks for classes with a rude attitude. When someone insists that I change my availabilities to meet their preferences or when a client tries to change what I want to teach for a group.

Staying aligned with your true self is so important to keep growing your business. We have to keep in mind that every choice we make will follow for a long time. So better go with what truly suits yourself!!

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

Start small to place your foot. Then, add some clients or offers and let every newness settle a bit before adding much. Always seek for balance between your professional self and your personal time. Work should never get over rest, health, and family time.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

A career change is not always scary! It can be fun, nourishing, and positive! It is never too late to learn something new. When you find the business field that keeps triggering your interest and makes you want to learn more, then you will know that you have found your "place."

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.formepilates.ca/

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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