Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paige Abbott, Founder of Sana Psychological, located in Calgary, AB, CA.

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

My business is a solo private counselling practice offering therapy to adults and loved ones who are struggling with addiction- an issue that is still so misunderstood and underrepresented in our societal conversations. People like you and I struggle with addiction every day. My clients are typically high-functioning professionals with inspirational families, relationships, friends, and hobbies. In other words, normal people with a common brain issue that creates problems for them.

Tell us about yourself

I have been interested in psychology since high school. Like most people in the profession, my passion grew out of curiosity to understand myself and where I came from and has blossomed into an interest in understanding others and supporting individuals and their families to grow and become the healthiest versions of themselves they can. My family has a lot of addiction, and serendipity brought me to specialize in that in my career over a decade ago.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting my successful private practice in the midst of a global pandemic! COVID sucked, but it brought awareness and the push to change. I moved out of a work situation that was becoming very toxic and into my lifelong dream of being an entrepreneur and business owner. I'm grateful for this every day.

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

Overcoming your own fear and internal obstacles. Everything external can be overcome much easier than what is blocking us internally. I struggle with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and fear of the "what ifs" of the future. However, I must trust myself, evidence from the past, and my support to navigate through these moments of insecurity.

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

  1. There will be no 'perfect' time. The things holding you back today won't look that bad or insurmountable on the other side. Just take the risk!
  2. Do what you're passionate about. I'm a big believer that success and financial stability will come if you do this. I don't believe in doing business for the sake of business. Take something you are passionate about, as you'll need that energy to help you during the challenging times.
  3. Have a good internal and external support system. Know yourself and know what you need and how to care for yourself. You can't be successful while running on empty.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I am grateful to have the inner resilience and interest in becoming a business owner, but I recognize that is not everyone's interest and path, and that's okay! Be honest with yourself about who you are and what you want, don't just do something to do it, do it because it's a fit with you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://sanapsychological.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sanapsycyyc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sana_psyc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sana_psyc
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3urW8Na

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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