Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lucas Tang, co-founder of Lumos Health, located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We make smart light therapy glasses for those looking to get the health benefits of being under the blue sky.
Tell us about yourself
I started working on the idea as an undergraduate engineering student. I was a classic night owl who used to struggle a lot with getting up early for classes and work. It eventually led me to having not only issues of being tired physically but also depressed mentally. It turns out a lot of it was due to how much time I spent inside dark rooms and lecture halls during the day and that I needed more light exposure to stay awake and healthy.
I bought light therapy lamps but didn't get a chance to use them much, being on the go all the time. I wanted something that could fit into my busy lifestyle. After spending one year at Apple's iPhone Product Design Engineering team in 2016, I found the confidence and skillset to start researching and invent a solution that made sense for me.
Today, I work on this product as it's been able to impact not only my life but also many people around me who are looking for similar solutions.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment I feel as a business owner was having built a solid relationship with my co-founders. While winning competitions, designing a great product, and getting investment are all great things. The one thing that feels the most satisfying at the end of the day is the people that are part of this journey.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I would say it is the moments when cash flow is tight and the only thing supporting you is your vision and grit. It almost feels like swimming against the current and rebelling against reality. Although that's what entrepreneurship is all about.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Have people supporting you and focus on relationships that the business can bring. Stay true to your vision and work on what you love. Intellectual property is really important for any technology company looking to start.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Sometimes it is okay to run a business while working a full-time job as it can be a great way to have secure cash flow. Be sure to keep the two things separate and have clear boundaries.
Where can people find you and your business?
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.