Boxing as a Therapeutic Escape

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in sports and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nita Watson, Founder and Executive Director of The Self-Care Lab, located in Montclair, CA, USA.

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

The Self-Care Lab is a clinical boxing and wellness experience. It is an unorthodox approach to the metaphysical, a safe space for youth, and a community resource.

Tell us about yourself

I am a Mental Health professional (Associate Marriage & Family Therapist) and certified USA Boxing & Fitness Trainer. The Self-Care Lab is a platform for me to share my experiences through advocacy and education. My job is not easy. There are moments when I have questioned the continuance and what I am actually doing. I am quickly reminded of the lives that have been and continue to be impacted through The Self-Care Lab project and my commitment to youth. The motivation is simply because I counted out, so I ultimately have to keep going. It's just personal.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been reopening after my first location was forced to be closed. I survived an entire pandemic, continued providing a safe space for youth and the community, and tending to my own self-care.

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

One of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is the capital. Some days you question, "is it worth it? Should I continue?" There are also moments when you feel defeated because there are so many broken and traumatized youth, you would like to sponsor and train them all for free, but you simply can not. Another challenge is being consistent and showing up for yourself. It is easy to cheerlead for others, but you have to remember to cheer for yourself. Applaud your own journey and simply keep going.

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

Create a plan and stick to it. Do not allow anyone, any situation or obstacle, to have you change your mind and what you have created.
Do not share your plans with everyone. Everyone is not a fan. Some people will not be excited, and this will heighten feelings of insecurity.
Articulate your plan and execute it. Write the plan out. Do not rush, compare or contrast. Once you have gathered your resources, take flight! Do not let anything stand in your way.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://theselfcarelab.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theselfcarelab/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theselfcarelab2/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheSelfCareLab
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3CYeES8

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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