Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sarah Carter, owner of Vitalize - An Acupuncture + Wellness Clinic, located in Beaverton, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own and operate a collaborative healthcare clinic where I am an acupuncturist. I employ massage therapists, acupuncturists, and chiropractors. Our customers are from the greater Portland area. They tend to be active professionals seeking a natural alternative to western medicine.
Tell us about yourself
I worked for Oregon Child Welfare for ten years before going back for a master's in acupuncture after receiving amazing results with acupuncture personally. After two years of practice working for a mentor, I purchased Vitalize (in June 2015). I began growing it from a two-acupuncturist women's focused fertility clinic to a collaborative healthcare clinic treating various illnesses.
I was inspired by the amazing support that acupuncture and alternative healthcare provided me, and I wanted to provide that experience to others. I continue to be completely inspired by nature and the body. These are such inspiring parts of our world and really enjoyable to explore. The body provides so many opportunities to learn.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
This is a hard question for me. I don't usually sit with my accomplishments for long. I guess I would say staying in business and retaining a strong, qualified team throughout the pandemic. That was tough, humbling, and at times overwhelming. I think we can safely say that we got through it and that this business will continue onward.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Managing people, especially during a pandemic.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Let the little things go.
- Remember that you don't actually want and can't actually have a team full of 'super chickens.'
- Slow down and celebrate the wins along the way, that is the journey, and that is the joy.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.vitalizeacupuncture.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VitalizeAcupunctureInc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalizeacupuncture/
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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