Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dr. Karen Quinn, a Chiropractor, based in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a lifestyle-based Chiropractor with a boutique practice providing care for families and people of all ages. Health is holistic, and optimizing spinal and nervous system health is an important component. In addition to this, understanding and improving daily habits and choices to support the mind and body is essential for living a full, healthy life.
I offer a variety of techniques in my practice to accommodate the individual needs of those who see me. From gentle and specific instrument-based adjusting, taping, cranial sacral, and muscle activation techniques, we work together to address the various layers of dysfunction that may be present in the body and work to find the root cause.
Tell us about yourself
I knew I wanted to become a Chiropractor in my second year of University. I was drawn to the philosophy and science of healing and resonated with the idea that health was more than the absence of disease. As a Chiropractor, there are many hats to be worn: clinician, researcher, business owner, the list goes on. I knew I wanted to focus on developing my clinical skills upon graduation, so I worked as an associate for a few years, transitioned into an independent contractor position, and then branched out as a sole proprietor close to 6 years ago. There are pros and cons to all practice arrangements, and someone's preference will often relate to their tolerance for risk and desire for autonomy. As for what keeps me motivated? My practice members. I strive to deliver a high level of care and service and regularly seek improved efficiencies to keep my days running smoothly.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The majority of my practice has grown through word-of-mouth. I have done minimal marketing, and I am proud that I have been able to develop a practice filled with people I adore by showing up, listening, providing a safe and comfortable space for people, and by delivering high-quality care. My wins and my losses are my own, and I find both empowering, a reason to celebrate, or a space to learn and improve. One can't exist without the other!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
We don't know what we don't know. I can be an amazing practitioner, but that doesn't by default equate to being a savvy business owner. If the business side isn't run effectively, though, it will really limit the growth and sustainability of your practice. I'm mostly a one-woman show, so delegating is still something I'm working on, but I'd say the hardest thing is keeping myself a priority. Especially being in a health-centric business, it's important I walk the talk and take time away from my practice also. Creating boundaries with myself is an ongoing process but has proved to be an essential part of my growth and fulfillment.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Consider how you want your customers/clients to FEEL when using your services or products. If you consider this as part of their experience, you can use this as a filter for various decisions, from branding to phone/email interactions, etc.
- Recognize your own self-care (gym, appointments, days off, etc.) to be essential for the success of your business, not the work vs. life choice you have to make, because 9x/10, you will likely drop your own needs before the business needs.
- Set aside time to plan, set goals, and work ON the business (not just IN your business). Whether it's a blocked day off or a weekend getaway, it's important to pause and celebrate how far you've come, take note of where things sit now and re-clarify the direction you want your business (and life!!) to go!
Remember, not every day will be inspiring (most likely), so celebrate the days that are, and be clear on your greater purpose & desired impact to stay on track!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.drkarenquinn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drkarenquinn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkarenquinn/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkarenquinn/
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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