Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental health, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bob Wilkie, the founder of I Got Mind Inc. A mental health and wellness teacher based in Canada.

Tell us all about your business...

IGM promotes mental health and wellness through social and emotional learning, we support sports organizations, educational organizations, and business organizations. We also have programs for individuals, parents and coaches.

What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?

I founded IGM in 2008. It was after I had gone through my own healing and found answers that allowed me to overcome my trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. Since 2008 I have worked with thousands of people to educate and support their own journey of healing and resolving mental health afflictions.

It motivates me to see the relief, understanding and action that others take when they learn this life-changing information. We all want to live our best life, our programs provide the information that can help them achieve that.

As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you?

It happens daily when I see the relief on someone's face that they can overcome and solve the issues that have stopped them. Knowing that IGM has provided that is the greatest accomplishment.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?

There are so many challenges that present themselves daily. Being the support for my own team, making sure the content has a positive impact, managing the financial challenges, to create the balance for my own life, are things that I have to work at minute to minute. Every day I have to do my best, knowing that some days may not be, has been the hardest lesson to learn as the business owner.

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

Create a solid plan and use the great resources that are out there to make sure you have thought of everything that you can. Make sure you have a financial plan and a person who can help you make sure you are on plan and can see where you are at daily. The financial burden is where I see most entrepreneurs fail.

Developing the skills to manage stress, is hard, it will challenge you in more ways than you thought. The reason we become business owners is to live a life we want, be prepared, stay focused, and control what you can, your attitude!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I am always grateful to be able to share my experience and help others who want to take the leap of being a creator. It is the most fulfilling experience I have ever had personally and I encourage others when I can to take charge of their lives.

The personal satisfaction we can experience when we take the leap of being a business owner is indescribable. Be prepared, and enjoy every step you take even when the challenge is great. A favourite quote of mine is "Your life is an occasion, rise to it", I do that every day.

Where can people find you online?

https://igotmind.ca/
https://www.facebook.com/igotmind/
https://twitter.com/igotmind?lang=en
https://www.instagram.com/igotmind1/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach 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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