Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa M. Smith, M.S., Ph.D., a parenting expert, counselor, author, public speaker, and metaphysician based in Anthem, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Using a holistic approach, I work with individuals and families in order to facilitate healing. This manifests as a blend of part therapist/part life coach. As a certified Neurodevelopmentalist, certified in Family Effectiveness Training and CBT, I utilize a multi-faceted approach to reveal blocks toward living one’s best self. I work with “children of all ages” (yes, that includes adults!) to excavate their greatest potential with practical tips and tools. I enjoy working with families, in particular, those having parenting challenges and/or children who are neurodivergent. I work with the child and the parents to assist the child in reaching their full potential while creating balance and harmony within the household.
Tell us about yourself
My son was diagnosed with autism 25 years ago. At the time, there were no treatments available. So, I began a quest to find (and, if they didn’t exist, create) methods and tools for his ultimate recovery. At age 29, he is now working as a civil engineer and living his best life! I approach my business the same way. I am always learning, reading books, and taking classes, to discover and uncover new ways to heal the brain and create new tools for my clients. I love learning, and I enjoy helping people and am especially passionate about helping children – to really see themselves and to love themselves just as they are! It is so incredibly rewarding to help a child (and their parents) shift their paradigm of thinking and how a child will just magically flourish in this new light!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was balancing getting my degrees and certifications while working full-time and being a single mom to 4 amazing kids (now adults)! In addition, I have written several books along the way as I hope to continually learn and share with the world. I have learned that I might help other families as they struggle to understand and work to help their children.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with owning a business is creating balance. This is especially true when you counsel and work with people, as it is easy to “bring them home” with you. I truly wish to help people, so I will think of my clients and research methods to help them. It is a continual struggle that, in turn, allows you to work on healthy habits and boundaries for yourself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Three tips I would offer anyone wishing to begin and/or grow their business would be the following:
- Invest in yourself. Clearly outline what you want it to look like in the end, and then create reasonable goals and steps to achieve this. I started with a paying job while building my business on the side. I wanted it to grow naturally and not put unnecessary pressure on myself to make money.
- Make sure you have a good self-care plan in place. When you are an entrepreneur, it is you and only you. So make sure you are caring for your most valuable resource – YOU!
- Build a support system of people – either in your field or who have good business acumen. If you are a “big picture” person, have people that can help you look at the details. It is important to have people who can help you with some objectivity.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.peacefulparentingpathway.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066623526127
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-smith-ph-d-aa7b1391/
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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