Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Hye-Yeon Park, Owner of Pilates Story, located in San Francisco, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Pilates Story is a classical pilates-based studio where we meet all walks of life, from teens to wise ones. Our clients bring many things for our teachers, such as injury, surgery, pre/postnatal, everyday aches, and just wanting to get stronger! Our goal is to teach everyone how to have a strong mind-body connection to live fully.
Tell us about yourself
I had my first hip surgery at age ten from a bad car accident. In my 20s, the pain was unbearable, so I finally got a total hip replacement at age 30, which was 20 years ago. After the recovery, I realized how disconnected I was from my body and movement. That led me to search for the modality that I would feel comfortable to star. Since I was not moving my body like others since I was 10, I was very insecure about any movement.
I discovered classical pilates, and I was moved emotionally and physically. I found my freedom and myself by feeling my body again. In my late 30, I was looking for how I could do what I always wanted to do, that is, help others. I thought of going to the cooking school but instead went to classical pilates training in 2009. That's the best decision I ever made. I feel very lucky and grateful to share little magical moments with people every day. It is truly amazing to see how the community of healing is growing together!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is creating a community that is a kind, caring, open-hearted, positive force of humanity.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I started my business with a partner, but she quit just five months after we were in the business together. Because of that, my workload doubled as I expected. This means I cannot spend much time with my son and husband. That is the hardest thing still now.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your passion.
- Know your strength.
- Know what to improve.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Know your intention..want to make money? Create something new? want comfortable living? How many hours do you want to work? Be clear with all of those things before quitting your job to start the business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://pilatesstorystudio.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PilatesStoryStudio/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pilatesstorystudio/
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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