Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carolyn Williams, Founder of The Bar Method, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Bar Method is an exercise studio that focuses on building stronger bodies with challenging barre workouts that infuse power into every movement. Each exercise is meticulously designed to transform your body through high-repetition, low-impact resistance training. With elements of Pilates, yoga, and other strength training workouts fused into a ballet-inspired barre workout, you will experience unthinkable flexibility, total-body definition, and metabolism-boosting endurance that lasts long after class. Our clients range from 16 years old to 80 years old. We offer modifications for all body types to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the exercises.
Tell us about yourself
As a marathon runner in my 20s, I have always believed in the movement to create healthy, strong bodies. As I got older and running became a bit rougher on my body, I started craving more strength training. I opened my first Bar Method studio in 2010. I love helping people build physical and mental strength in their bodies. I love seeing our clients' confidence grow as they become stronger. I am always so motivated by our team and our community. They are all so encouraging of each other and welcoming.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Creating a space where people feel seen and welcome. We have a really wonderful community and have seen so many clients become friends over the years.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Relationships are probably the hardest part of being a business owner. Over the many years, I have had to learn not to take things personally, how to navigate different personalities, and how to constantly grow and develop as a leader. There is no status quo in owning a business!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You can't control other people's behaviour, but you can control how you respond to it.
- Things always cost more than you anticipate, and there are always unanticipated costs.
- Focus on your "why," and the rest will come...
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://barmethod.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBarMethodVancouverYaletown
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barmethod_van/
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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