Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dr. Heidi Hanna, Founder and CEO of Synergy Brain Fitness, located in San Diego, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own a speaking and consulting firm that provides brain-based training for individuals and organizations. Our primary focus is Stress Mastery - using stress to fuel positive change.
Tell us about yourself
I've always been curious about the brain and nervous system and the gap between what we know and what we actually do. Growing up, I struggled with anxiety and depression and developed a condition called VasoVagal Syndrome, where I will actually lose consciousness if I'm overstimulated. This was misdiagnosed for decades, causing even more mental health challenges. But it also fueled my longing for greater understanding, leading me to continue my education in areas including psychology, nutrition, physiology, and neuroscience.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I've had so many wonderful experiences, such as traveling the world and speaking in front of audiences. But the greatest surprise has been my LinkedIn Learning courses, which have now been used by more than 1 million people and translated into 7 languages. Seeing my work continue to help people is the greatest gift of my life so far.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, I think it's been the uncertainty and roller-coaster pace. Having to be responsible for income and all the other costs of life, often completely alone, can be tough. The greatest lesson I've learned is not to panic in the slow seasons, so I can really rest and recharge for the speedy seasons that always come.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Build self-care routines that are non-negotiable, as it's true you can't take care of your employees, clients, or work tasks if you're running on empty.
- Find a group of other entrepreneurs (like EO - Entrepreneurs Organization), so you can speak candidly with others in similar circumstances, not just about work but about life as a whole.
- Be sure to build in humor, play, and fun into your life daily.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://heidihanna.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidihannaphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidihannaphd/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/heidihanna
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidihanna/
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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