Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Botsas, Holistic Nutrition Practitioner of Vital Wellness, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.

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

Vital Wellness is a private wellness & holistic nutrition practice (R.H.N) located in Montreal, Quebec (Canada). I offer consultations anywhere in the world, virtually. I’m passionate about teaching clients how to nourish their bodies so that they can walk into the best version of themselves. My non-diet approach moves away from food restrictions and spending hours meal prepping for the week - who has the time or the energy? I provide my clients with their own personalized action plans tailored to their specific needs and include a collection of inspirational recipes! I work with both men and women, specializing in long-term habit changes, weight management, relationship to food, digestive health, and metabolic health goals.

Tell us about yourself

I have a passion for nutrition & fitness. I love to constantly challenge my body through exercise and eat well to support it. How did I get here? Having chronic illnesses run in my family; I’ve always prioritized preventative health in my life through proper nutrition. However, in my early 20’s, I experienced a personal health issue that needed deep medical attention. My year-long quest for answers and solutions highlighted a gap in the traditional medical system. I knew that a more integrative approach was needed. This is what propelled me into the holistic nutrition space. I knew that I wanted to work with people whose shoes I used to be in and give them hope for a better quality of life. I never settled with my health, and I don’t want my clients to either. Helping others experience positive changes in their health fuels my motivation to continue fulfilling my work.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a relatively new business owner, my biggest accomplishment has been watching my practice & clients grow in a way that has purpose and alignment. There is no greater feeling. As with any business, you go into it with a lot of unknowns and look forward to the days when you gain momentum and consistency. As someone who celebrates small wins with my clients, I have to remember to do the same for myself (both personally and professionally).

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

It is extremely easy to become overwhelmed, especially if you are wearing all of the hats. I’ve had to learn to cut myself some slack; I can’t do everything at once. When you are a perfectionist, this is easier said than done. Being prepared to identify the gaps and holes in your business and proudly go back to the drawing board can feel defeating. It’s not always smooth sailing, nor is it not supposed to be. You come to realize it’s important to be your own cheerleader. However, you may have support from your community, friends, or family. YOU need to believe in yourself.

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

  1. First and foremost, establish your ‘’why’’. It can be easy to reach your limits when everything rides on the success of your business. Having clarity on your purpose and mission is extremely important to push you forward and keep going!
  2. Just start. It’s easy to get into the analysis paralysis stage when you have 1,000 steps ahead of you and no direction on where to start. Remember, whatever you do now will not be the final cut. There will be many iterations and many mistakes. It also means that it will get better, and you will get better with experience.
  3. Learn from others who have already done it. I would suggest attending a business event/conference that is specific to your industry (because most people starting a business don’t know squat about business). Learn from the experts, and let them give you the tools and stepping stones. This will give you the direction you need while providing an opportunity to network and connect with other business owners in your space. One of the best things I ever did was attend a 3-day business conference specific to health practitioners running online businesses.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.vitalwellness.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBotsasNutrition/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalwellnessmtl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-botsas-466211102/

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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