Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lynsey Whitehill, Co-Owner of Massage Haven, located in Pueblo West, CO, USA.

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

Massage Haven is a high-quality massage therapy practice. We offer a variety of massage techniques to promote relaxation, pain relief, and overall wellness. Our customers are individuals seeking relief from physical and emotional stress, athletes looking to improve their performance, and those in need of injury rehabilitation. We also work with clients who have specific medical conditions and can benefit from massage therapy as a complementary treatment.

Tell us about yourself

I started practicing massage therapy when I was 19 years old. I opened my first shop in my hometown, which consisted of one grocery store, one stoplight, and liquor stores. My older sister was a massage therapist in Las Vegas and inspired me to follow in her footsteps. Growing up, we always gave each other massages, so I guess you could say we always had a passion for it. I left my small town in 2013 to pursue a more lucrative career in massage therapy. I think coming from a small town, I always felt like an underdog, so I have worked hard to improve my skills and build my practice. Seeing the relief and happiness in my clients after they get off of my massage table and seeing their bodies improve is very rewarding for me. Seeing their progress keeps me motivated to expand my skill set so I can help them live their best lives.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say my biggest accomplishment is overcoming self-doubt and blocking out people around me who doubted me. When I went out on my own here in Pueblo West, I was told I wouldn't be successful; there was no way I could build a clientele on my own, I didn't have what it takes, etc. I finally decided it was up to me to be successful and not for them to decide for me. I would also have to say keeping our doors open during the pandemic, overcoming those obstacles, and bouncing back better than before is another big accomplishment.

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

One of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is the responsibility of making important decisions that can greatly impact the success or failure of the business. These decisions can involve financial investments, hiring and firing employees, implementing new strategies, and managing resources. As a business owner, you need to weigh the potential risks and benefits of each decision and make informed choices that align with your business goals. Additionally, you have to be prepared to deal with unexpected challenges and setbacks that may arise, such as economic downturns, changes in the industry, or unexpected expenses. The pressure of these responsibilities can be difficult to manage and can take a toll on your personal and professional life.

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

  1. Identify a clear and specific problem to solve: Successful businesses solve problems or meet a need that people have. Before starting a business, identify a specific problem that you can solve or a need that you can fulfill. Research your target market to ensure that there is a demand for your product or service, and find out what your potential customers are looking for.
  2. Focus on building relationships: Building strong relationships with your customers, employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders is essential for the success of any business. Listen to feedback and respond to concerns in a timely and professional manner. Treat your employees well, provide them with the necessary training and resources, and empower them to make decisions that benefit the business. Cultivate relationships with suppliers and other partners to ensure that you have a reliable and efficient supply chain.
  3. Be adaptable and embrace change: The business landscape is constantly evolving, and successful business owners must be adaptable and willing to embrace change. Stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes in technology, and be open to new opportunities that may arise. Be willing to pivot your business strategy if necessary, and don't 1232be afraid to take calculated risks that can lead to growth and success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.pueblowestmassage.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/massagehavenpueblo

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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