Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ana Tootle, Founder of Feel Good Foods, located in Key Biscayne, FL, USA.

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

My business is called Feel Good Foods, Inc. dba Elevated. Feel Good Foods is dedicated to helping end hunger in our local communities via the sale of my homemade pumpkin bread. For every $10 loaf sold, I donate $1 to Feeding South Florida, which provides nine meals to neighbors in need. This is how the undeniable foodie in me "bakes" a difference in our community. Additionally, Elevated is dedicated to teaching mindfulness and meditation to the everyday individual who wants to become a better version of themselves via simple yet powerful techniques called my 4-step recipe for mindfulness. I teach these classes, called Sunrise Gratitude, at my local beach, the Key Biscayne Beach Park, every Friday morning. I also teach mindfulness via webinars and do virtual sessions. I am certified in Laughter Yoga, too, and help teach students how to chuckle their way to better health.

Tell us about yourself

I love food. I love to cook. The thought of other people having limited or no access to this basic human necessity is what motivated me to combine two passions into one, which is how Feel Good Foods, Inc was born. Additionally, mindfulness is a huge part of my wellness, and the journey hasn't always been smooth. I've learned a lot along the way and know in the pit of my soul that I am meant to teach what I have learned to others in order to make their lives better and more enjoyable while taking out the mystique of mindfulness and meditation. Ever since I began meditating, I feel like I receive valuable downloads from the universe that are not only beneficial to me but that are meant to be shared with anyone willing to listen and increase their well-being. Becoming a better version of ourselves is a win-win for everyone. With a simple act of self-love, the world can become a better place, one good intention at a time.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is knowing that for every delicious homemade loaf I sell, I am not only making the person consuming it happily but, better yet, making sure that no one in my local community will be going hungry. There is no greater satisfaction than that. Pursuing your passion while making a difference that is meaningful to you is probably one of the greatest gifts you can experience as a human being. We all have unique talents and pursuits. When we follow them, then everybody wins.

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

Time management. I want to do it all. I'm an admitted control freak and picky in the way that I run my business, and the price to pay is that it all falls on me. I am learning to ask for help, and I am enjoying the returns as a result. Sometimes you have to fall before you rise, and God knows I've done that numerous times. But if you continue to follow your north star, getting up and doing a better job becomes easier each time.

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

  1. Show up even if you don't know "how" so that the universe can meet you halfway.
  2. No matter how difficult it gets, the universe ALWAYS has your back.
  3. The power of gratitude is much more powerful than we give it credit for. Make it your greatest mantra no matter what is going on in your life.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'd like to remind people who are beginning mindfulness, or even those that are more seasoned, that you have gifts that are unique to you. When you pursue those dreams and desires that stir you up inside, follow them because the rest of us become winners as a result. We are innately programmed to pursue our dreams, and when we do, miracles happen. We have more power than we give ourselves credit for. Take the time to discover, cultivate and pursue yours. The world is a better place as a result.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://anatootle.wixsite.com/feel-good
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FeelGoodKB

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/anatootle/
https://www.instagram.com/sunrisegratitudekb/
https://www.instagram.com/feelgoodkb/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/anatootle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-tootle/

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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