Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joelle Anderson, Owner of Kernel of Wisdom, located in Uxbridge, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am the owner and lead psychotherapist at Kernel of Wisdom. We treat a broad range of mental health issues but offer specialized care for eating disorders, trauma, post-/pre-natal challenges, and LGBTQ2S+ clients.
Tell us about yourself
I had been working for several years in marketing and advertising (and trained at a high school before that) and knew I wanted to do something that contributed a little more to well-being. I went back to my roots in non-profit at that point but still felt called to something more. I started doing a mindfulness meditation course to help myself with new skills for relaxation. Turns out, the program was developed primarily for mental health workers. It was the first time I was exposed to what a psychotherapist did - and I LOVED IT. It's what I had been searching for across several careers. So, I went back to school for my Master's in Counselling Psychology and have been a practicing psychotherapist since 2017.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Just being able to help so many clients. I get weekly requests for a new therapist. It breaks my heart in many ways because I can't help everyone. But I am SO glad I can help so many and that I have been able to bring in other clinicians to try and help with overflow. It's still not enough. We need more therapists out there! But I am proud of how many people we have been able to support and serve.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Finding time for everything. It's on the mind constantly. In some ways, I love the challenge, creativity, and problem-solving that come with that. But, I am still working on ruminating about the business less. Especially with a child now, I want to keep more (cognitive) boundaries where I can so I can keep focused on her, too.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Try lots, stick with what works, and just drop what doesn't. It's not a failure; it's not a big deal. You tried, but it didn't work. Drop it and move on.
- Listen to your clientele and build WITH them.
- Say yes, as much as you can.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.kernelofwisdom.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KernelofWisdom
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kernelofwisdom/
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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