Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Clisver Alvarez, founder of Blue Greis Lifestyle, located in Jackson, TN, USA.

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

Hello, I'm Clisver Alvarez; I'm a Mental health coach and writer. I've dedicated my life to battling mental health stigma by sharing my story of dealing with bipolar disorder. I do this to empower other individuals and show them that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that we are all worthy of it. In my business, I offer one-on-one coaching sessions, an online course, and my written content, as well as workshops and speaking engagements. I've been fortunate enough to connect with unbelievable people throughout.

My work has been featured in Good Housekeeping magazine, Web MD, Meerkat Motivator, Gladversity, and many more. My work is for those who want to unlock a higher level of meaning and purpose, those who want more joy, fulfillment, and love if you are someone who deals with anxiety or stress and is tired of feeling "stuck." Even possibly looking to make a change but don't know where to start? My content is for you. Suppose you want to be more attuned to relationships, health, and your creative expression. If you want to unleash your true self and be authentic and unapologetically you, my program is for you.

Tell us about yourself

I've been working with amazing people for the past three years. Here's my "why." Going on my mental health struggles made me a believer in coaching. So I set out on my journey to be that person for others. A few years later, I've helped many regain their inner strength and vitality and set goals. Through my work, I've been fortunate enough to connect with unbelievable people. Now my story before this is a bit complicated; here it goes...

It may feel like the end of the world when you're struggling in life, whether it be financially, in your emotional relationships, or with your health. I was there a few years ago. I was battling all three of these in my life. I had a very bad financial situation. My credit was in shambles. I had a job where I loved the environment, but the pay was not great. My health was also not the best, I suffered from bipolar disorder, and I ended up having a relapse which led me to be in the hospital for almost a month. This caused me to lose my job. Eventually, my family's financial situation started to plummet even more. This caused friction in my romantic relationship because we were struggling financially. I then decided something had to be done. Then it hit me! I remembered my husband had been telling me for about a year to move out of state, and I was always hesitant until one day. When I just decided I had enough! I needed a better life for my family.

The next day I decided to look into it. I did my research. I knew I had some money coming in from my taxes, and I also knew this would be my only chance. It was either now or never! I decided to choose a better lifestyle for my family rather than continue to choose to stay and continue to be miserable. I took a leap of faith, and here I am a few years later, knowing it was the best choice that I've ever made. This is why I say that the change has to start with you. You have to want it enough; you have to need it! Remember, I'm a big believer in "you miss 100% of the shots you don't take" & if you miss, get up and shoot even higher next time!"

A few things that motivate me to keep pushing through are my family, my health, and knowing that without my health and sanity, I DO'NT HAVE THEM.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a business owner, my biggest accomplishment was just getting out of my comfort zone and starting. I was always afraid of the "what if," and this is now my advice to you. I started writing because someone told me to. It was around 2012, and it was because I was struggling with my mental health journey; they suggested that I journal to get my feelings out and express them through writing. What I did not know was that what would bloom from there would be a career of wonderful journeys.

If I only knew that this was my push to get started, I would have started long before. To those who feel that they are not confident enough to start, I just want I tell you that I wasn't either and that we all must start somewhere. For those who feel that they need more materials or equipment to start, remember that all that stuff comes later, and you can always acquire more as you go. Lastly, for those who think education is required, sometimes I admit it's needed, but don't let that stop you from acquiring the free resources that are already out there. Remember, time is very valuable and is one thing my father would always tell me.
"you don't know the time you have until it's gone." Therefore I say like NIKE says Just do it and just START.

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

The risk, I believe that everyone thinks you are so brave to be owning your own business, but, It can be scary.

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

  1. Just Start; get out of your comfort zone.
  2. Use free resources/Networks to get out there but don't forget to be humble.
  3. Always Have Fun!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I offer a 30 discover your anchor's session in order to help individuals discover what's stopping them from their maximum potential. The best part is that it's completely free! https://bit.ly/3yIwo26

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://bluegreislifestyle.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliisver07
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clisveralvarez/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlueGreis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clisver-alvarez-436a20138/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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