Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Preet Mankoo, CEO of Cancer Coach Professionals of America, Inc., located in Blue Mountains, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Certified Holistic Cancer Coach, and I help women with breast cancer struggling with side effects and fear of recurrence implement an integrative cancer recovery plan to feel back in control without confusion and overwhelm.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Preet, and I have over 20 years of experience as a pharmacist, most recently in an outpatient oncology clinic. It was during my time in outpatient oncology that I realized the incredible need for cancer coaches. As part of my position in the outpatient oncology department, I counseled hundreds of patients on their cancer treatments, including regimens, duration of therapy, side effects, and management. Often during my patient counseling sessions, my cancer patients would ask me all sorts of questions, such as whether they should remove sugar from their diet, what supplements they could use to help with nausea, did their environment play a role in causing their cancer, and so on… These were just a few of the questions I was asked in almost every counseling session; there were many, many more!
Many of the folks with cancer that came for counseling were confused, scared, and frustrated. I realized that most of them just wanted to be empowered in their journey to cancer wellness. They wanted to incorporate integrative therapies into their treatment plans, but they weren't sure where to start. My research led me to uncover many integrative tools and strategies that were backed by research and science to show that people could indeed optimize their treatment outcomes by addressing four important areas of health: Nutrition, Environment, Lifestyle, and Mind/Spirit. The more I researched, the more I wanted to know... and this desire led me towards a certification in cancer coaching. My decision to become a Certified Holistic Cancer Coach is one of the most fulfilling choices I've ever made. Not only am I doing what I love, but I believe strongly in the integrative approach to cancer care.
My goal is to empower cancer patients with the tools and knowledge to manage their treatment options by mitigating the side effects of conventional cancer treatments and strengthening their immune systems in order to create an environment in their bodies where cancer cannot thrive.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I love seeing the women I work with as clients and in my Facebook group, Breast Cancer Nutrition and Lifestyle Group for Prevention and Recovery, gain confidence as they learn the action steps to create a recovery plan that works for them.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, one of the hardest things that came with being a business owner was finding the right balance between work and life. When I first started out, I found it was easy to get caught up in the hustle and grind, working long hours and neglecting my personal life. However, I realized that I would quickly burn out if I didn't make time for myself. I feel it's important to find a healthy balance between work and play... that keeps me motivated and productive without sacrificing my well-being. This is important to me, and ironically finding balance is one of the things I teach in my Breast Cancer Recovery Roadmap coaching program. This can be a challenge, but it's essential for ensuring long-term health as both an individual and a business owner.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
There's no shortage of advice out there for anyone looking to start, run and grow a business. But with so much information available, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are three tips that helped me stay on the right track:
- Focus on your niche. Trying to be everything to everyone is a surefire recipe for failure. Instead, focus on serving a specific market or customer base. Not only will this make it easier to stand out from the competition, but it will also make it easier to build a loyal following.
- Don't be afraid to experiment. It's important to have a clear vision for your business, but don't be afraid to try new things along the way. Sometimes the best way to learn what works (and what doesn't) is through trial and error.
- Stay focused and organized. As your business grows, it will be easy to get bogged down in day-to-day operations. But in order to continue growing, it's important to stay focused on your long-term goals and keep a close eye on your finances and operations. By staying organized and keeping your eye on the prize, you'll increase your chances of success.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
A cancer coach can provide invaluable support to breast cancer patients throughout their treatment journey. From the moment of diagnosis, a cancer coach can help patients navigate the complex medical system, connect them with resources, and provide emotional support. They can provide education and support throughout the treatment process. They can also help patients manage their symptoms and side effects, as well as any emotional challenges they may be facing.
In addition, cancer coaches can provide guidance on lifestyle changes that may help to improve the patient's prognosis. For example, they may recommend dietary changes or exercise routines that can help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Finally, cancer coaches can serve as a source of inspiration and hope for patients who are struggling with their diagnosis. After treatment, a cancer coach can help patients transition back to their everyday lives, set goals for their future, and find hope and joy in the face of adversity. A cancer coach is a trusted ally who can make a difficult journey just a little bit easier. By offering support and practical advice, cancer coaches can help breast cancer patients navigate their journey with confidence.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.cancerrecoveryroadmap.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancercoachpreet/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/preet-mankoo-ba96571a/
Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/preeti.mankoo
Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/groups/breastcancerrecovery/
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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