Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joe Clarke, Founder of Joseph Clarke-Spiritual Flourishing, located in Oceanside, CA, USA.

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

I provide supportive spiritual guidance. My goal is to help you connect to the present moment through the heart, so you can get discovery more of what life has to offer and experience more peace & harmony in daily life. I do this through a combination of methods, including: Reiki energy healing, mindfulness coaching, & spiritual dialogue. My customers are folks seeking to get unstuck and onto the path of flourishing.

Tell us about yourself

I haven't always been spiritually minded. The shift began when I got leukemia back in 2010 while attending law school. I had a guardian angel experience in the hospital, and during my stay, I read Eckhart Tolle for the first time. When I left the hospital, I found myself drawn to mindfulness practices. By and large, though, my beliefs and habits remained the same as before. That changed dramatically in 2018 when my spiritual awakening drastically intensified. It was like a dam broke in my heart, and everything that had been stuffed down there came flying up. It was an overwhelming flurry of pain, confusion, memories, and insights. Seeking guidance, I began working with spiritual teachers and guides, and I began studying Buddhism, mystical teachings, and holistic healing methods. I learned so much and continue to learn to this day. I became a spiritual guide so I could share what I learned with others, alleviate their suffering, and help them find a healthier, happier life path grounded in a loving connection with the heart.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting the business itself! Between 2013 and 2021, I worked as a deputy public defender in Northern California. I left that job to start this business. I went from a pretty good salary and benefits to zero income and a series of expenses. It was daunting! Fortunately, my mindfulness and healing practices carried me through. I built and launched my website, established myself on advertising platforms, set up social media accounts, generated web content, and began working with individual clients. Looking back, I have so much pride and gratitude for the work I put in.

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

The uncertainty. Where will I meet my next client? Will I secure enough business to make ends meet? Am I spending my time well? Being an employee is kinda nice in that way; your responsibilities and expectations are all laid out for you. It's kinda stressful, especially at first, to be your own boss, and have to discover those priorities for yourself. But it's also awesome to have the freedom and independence to pursue your passions and explore your curiosities.

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

  1. Pick an area that genuinely interests & motivates you.
  2. Take an honest look at your finances to know how much cushion you have while the business is in its infancy.
  3. Connect with others in your industry to build relationships, learn, and share.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

In this day and age, with all the online resources available, it's pretty easy to start a business. For that same reason, it's also really easy to start a business that never really goes anywhere. Your passion and dedication are the keys to success. If you love your field and you genuinely enjoy the work you do, success will flow from there. If your sole focuses are money and convenience, you might get both, but fulfillment will be hard to come by, and the business is unlikely to bring you joy. I worked as an employee for many years before I became inspired to start my business. Acting from inspiration, I love what I do. I hope you find a way to channel your inspiration into a business idea.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.josephclarke-spiritualflourishing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpiritFlourish
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritflourish/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpiritFlourish
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3cAAIaV

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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