Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Will Black, Founder of The Balanced Self, located in Denver, CO, USA.

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

The Balanced Self offers life-coaching and yoga sessions to individuals. I serve clients from a wide diversity of backgrounds, from those in their early twenties all the way to those in retirement. While the demographics are extensive, my clients consistently are those who aspire to live a balanced life in all areas and appreciate a holistic approach to doing so. We work together using mindfulness-based techniques to overcome limiting beliefs and behaviors, establish new habits, and work towards living more authentically. Each client is unique, and I always approach them knowing this. We start with where they are and work to create a tangible roadmap of getting them to where they want to be.

Tell us about yourself

My work stems directly from my own healing journey. Much of my life was spent suffering from severe depression and anxiety, which later manifested as alcoholism. After years of struggle, I eventually decided I had enough and committed myself to overcome these barriers. I quit drinking, began meditating, discovered yoga, and worked with many teachers and practices until I came to a place of healing. While I don’t believe our healing journeys truly end, I reached a point where my path turned towards service. Many incredible women and men helped me become the person I am today, and my work is how I give back and share these teachings.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Seeing my clients grow, achieve their goals, and free themselves of patterns or beliefs that have kept them stuck is the most rewarding part of my job. From our very first meeting, we always start by getting a sense of where they are, what’s kept them stuck there, and where they want to go. Empowering them to take the steps they need to reach their potential fills me with immense joy. Slowly seeing them break out of their comfort zone takes such tremendous courage and bravery. Every day they reaffirm their commitments and dedication to themselves inspires me. My client’s successes are my greatest achievement, and I am very blessed to have worked with such tremendous individuals.

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

Maintaining balance in life as a business owner continues to challenge me. As a sole business owner, you take on all the responsibilities of an organization. From marketing to client outreach, managing finances, let alone simply providing quality service to my clients, it takes tremendous effort to keep everything running smoothly and maintain healthy self-care.

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

  1. Start by asking yourself why you want to start a business. It takes an unfathomable amount of dedication and effort to create a business, so from the very start knowing your why is important. This will be your rock and foundation during those long nights and days when you feel like throwing in the towel and questioning if it’s really your path. Know your reason for creating your business and allow that to guide you.
  2. Set healthy boundaries. It’s easy to allow your business to consume your entire life. You obviously have a huge passion for your work, and with that, you may neglect other areas of your life. Whether that’s friendships, relationships, or even your physical health and well-being, make sure you set aside time to look after these crucial areas of your life. Put them on the calendar and give them the same importance, if not more importance, than you would your business.
  3. Be patient. It takes time for a business to gain traction. If you’re focused on making x amount of dollars or acquiring x number of clients, you will set yourself up for disappointment. Savor and celebrate your small victories. Every milestone is something to be proud of and cherish. Stay grateful and patient as you pursue your venture.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://thebalancedselfcounseling.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.balanced.self
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.balanced.self/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-balanced-self/

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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