Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stacey Kent, Founder of Center Point Acupuncture Medicine, LLC, located in Columbus, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm an acupuncturist & herbalist! I am lucky to have a very diverse customer base. I see clients in their early teens, those in their eighty's & everyone in between. It seems that almost everyone has a desire to feel more balanced in their body and mind. I help them by addressing anxiety/overthinking, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, digestive challenges (bloating, constipation, diarrhea, excessive cravings), sinus & allergy issues, and all varieties of pain (acute pain, injury, pre & post-surgical pain, and numbness, chronic pain). I also treat patients in hospice care. Since acupuncture utilizes the whole person perspective when assessing health & wellness & disease, that perspective is also reflected in trying to figure out all the factors contributing to keeping the client from feeling their best.
Tell us about yourself
Like many other acupuncturists & herbalists, I was initially drawn into my work by being a patient and receiving this medicine's benefits. Acupuncture & herbs were essential to breaking my migraines cycle as a teenager. The doctor treating me at the time provided some relief with prescription medication; however, he also offered me the "comfort" of the likelihood that my migraines would hopefully wane after I entered menopause.....Figuring out the puzzle pieces related to a person's health challenge & helping them find hope and healing through our work together keeps me motivated and constantly curious every day I work with them.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm proud that in my 20 years in business, I've had successful acupuncture clinics in Ohio, Florida, and Colorado. My work has allowed me to live in these amazing states, working with unique clients in each area.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding a balance between working and overworking, giving to my business while also giving to my non-business self. I was reminded recently of a quote that hung in my first acupuncturist's office, "Don't be so busy making a living that you forget to make a life"...I've found that what my "balance" looks like changes and evolves over time, so I need to adjust my business over time as well to continue to be inspired by it and for it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start saving a portion of your income from day 1, no matter how small. Build that habit. Save a portion for your personal savings and another portion for reinvesting in business expenses, expansion, etc.
- Instead of being shut down thinking, "I can't...." ask yourself, "How can I...?, or How else could I....?"...and listen for the answers. Ask yourself the right questions, and you'll find your way through the obstacles.
- Find your people. Your connections with others in business, regardless if it's the same industry, really help get you through times when you're too tired to feel you can make it, or when you're questioning yourself, and when you need a spark of inspiration.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://staceyakent.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centerpointacupuncture/
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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