Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sarah Verboom, owner of Rooted Elm Therapeutic Massage, located in Halifax, NS, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a Registered Massage Therapist who provides care for the physical symptoms of anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. I chose to focus on working with people who have mental health concerns because I understand how much these issues can impact a person's life, and I have observed how powerful massage therapy can be in helping people manage these concerns.
I am an Ashiatsu barefoot massage practitioner, which means that I massage clients with my feet! This type of massage is especially wonderful because it allows for broad, consistent, soothing pressure. The depth can be tailored to meet a client's needs and preferences. I also provide classic hands-on Swedish massage for the rare client who is too sensitive for barefoot massage, but 95% of my treatments include varying amounts of barefoot techniques.
Tell us about yourself
I started my business because I had a very clear vision of the environment I wanted to work in and the type of treatments I wanted to be able to deliver to my clients. I've worked in many different clinics over the 15 years since I first graduated from massage school, and although I learned from all of them, I always felt limited in my practice while working for someone else. I was reluctant to become an entrepreneur, but now that I've become one, I have zero regrets!
Nothing makes me happier than helping my clients cope with their tension and pain and feel more comfortable in their bodies. I love providing a safe, judgment-free space for my clients to feel heard, cared for, and empowered. I feel fortunate to have a job where I get to make a positive impact on people's lives. Seeing how meaningful this work can motivate me to grow professionally and personally continually, so I can better serve the people who choose to work with me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far was taking the leap to open my business in January of this year. I did it in a way that was congruent with my values and standards, and my business has been a success from opening day! I feel fortunate to be supported by so many wonderful people. I acknowledge that my vision and hard work have been essential to my success.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing for me is maintaining boundaries, both with myself and my clients. I am passionate about what I do, so there is always the temptation to be thinking about work, answering emails, researching new training opportunities, etc., outside of work hours. I am highly empathetic and have a tendency toward over-giving, so it's imperative that I budget my energy such that I retain enough to properly care for myself, cultivate my relationships with loved ones, and continue to pursue my hobbies.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Run your business with integrity, and show up as best you can each day. People notice the small things because the small things really are the big things. Don't be afraid to find your voice and do things differently than those around you. Be selective about who you work with, as not everyone will respect your time and efforts. When you are not treated with respect, understand that it's usually more about the other person than it is about you.
- Invest in coaching or mentorship. The coaching program I participated in prior to opening my business helped with practical aspects such as choosing a niche, marketing, and creating and implementing company policies. More importantly, it helped with mindset blocks that I needed to overcome in order to be a success. Mindset is everything! I intend to continue investing in coaching as my business evolves and grows.
- Think big picture, and don't be afraid to dream big: if you can't imagine it for yourself, it won't happen. Surround yourself with people who are positive, encouraging, and not imprisoned by limiting beliefs. Don't get hung up on obstacles because there will always be more of them, and nothing will ever be perfect. Combine your determination with resiliency and creativity to get you where you want to be.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://rootedelmtherapeuticmassage.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SVerboomRMT
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedelmtherapeuticmassage/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-verboom-8b065217b/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur 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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