Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Pam Christenson, owner of Synergy Massage Therapy LLC., located in New York, NY, USA.

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

We provide therapeutic, client-centered massage in a private environment. We are a small, caring, and passionate group of Licensed Massage Therapists who take time to get to know our clients. We not only provide clients with a great massage but also follow up with self-care suggestions to keep them feeling their best between sessions. We see a variety of people, most between 25-70 years old, from those dealing with injuries, recovering from surgeries and people with chronic pain/tension, who require massage therapy as preventative health care to help reduce pain and keep them moving with ease.

Tell us about yourself

I’m not very good at sitting still and have never been a morning person. I’ve always been interested in self-care and natural ways to heal the body. When I decided to give up acting and dancing, massage therapy seemed like a great fit for me. I have the opportunity to help others and be the best part of someone’s day; I work when others don’t (evenings and Sundays), I get to move around and keep to a sleep schedule that suits me.

I’m a natural care-taker; this career allows me to put this inclination to work every day where it’s needed and keep it in check in my personal relationships. I love helping people feel better. I love solving problems. I really like that there are so many modalities in this profession and many paths to explore. With so much to learn, I don’t get bored. When I expanded my business into a group practice in 2014, it also allowed me to help others in this profession.

I really enjoy teaching and helping other LMTs reach their career goals and gain confidence. Many things motivate me if I have to narrow it down… I’m able to make positive changes every day because of my work. When the world feels crazy, it helps to know in my small way I’m helping others.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My greatest accomplishment was seeing that I was really making a difference in offering clients a unique service. We were making changes, lasting changes in their bodies! A spa massage is fine for relaxation, but I was always interested in providing more than basic relaxation. It was so satisfying to see what massage could actually accomplish. In 2014, I was booked out three months in advance, a clear sign that this type of treatment was needed, and expanded my practice to teach others and provide more opportunities for great massage therapy on the Upper West Side of NYC.

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

I really don’t enjoy being a manager, but I love being a mentor! Finding talented LMTs to join our team has always been the biggest challenge. I’m always searching for that needle in a haystack. Many LMTs are not interested in the type of massage we provide, and many have never learned customer service skills. This business is all about building relationships and communication! I can teach some things, but a natural interest in others and a warm and friendly personality can’t be taught. When I do find my treasured needles, it’s amazing! But, part of the process is helping them grow and letting them go to create their own private practices. I’m always so proud of them but also deflated because it leaves me having to start the search all over again.

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

  1. Know yourself. What kind of work and sleep schedule do you want? Does your business idea fit the above desires? If not, it’s not likely a good fit. Are you okay with not having a regular paycheck and paying for your own health insurance? Do you have the time, passion, and energy required to start a business? It’s all-consuming in the beginning.
  2. Have savings, a job that pays the rent, and start small. There’s no need to go broke trying to start your own business. Desperation doesn’t bring in clients; people can smell it a mile away and will steer clear of you. When you’re desperate for money, you’re also more likely to make bad decisions. Take the stress out of the situation and ease into creating your business. Your enthusiasm will attract your customers.
  3. Find inspiration to keep going when the going gets tough. ‘How I built this' is a great podcast. Having friendships with other business owners will provide insight, understanding, and a person to bounce ideas off of who really understands what you’re going through.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I’ve never been good with social media. Since we’re a small practice, Google and Yelp listings and word-of-mouth referrals have been the best advertising. If you’re looking to attract a larger volume of business, social media skills will be an asset. It’s very satisfying to run your own business, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re risk-averse or pessimistic, this is not your path. If you have always felt that you’re lucky, things work out for you, and that glass is half full, go for it!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.synergymassagenyc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PCMassageNYC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synergymassagenyc/

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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