Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in wellness, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jennifer Smrz, a wellness coach who beat breast cancer and has now made it her mission to help others on their healing journey.
Tell us all about your business...
I create awareness of the toxins/chemicals found in our homes & empower individuals to 'take control' & live a long, healthy life.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
Whether motivating participants in the gym to reach their fitness goals, assisting employees in finding new employment or educating individuals of the harmful chemicals/toxins in many products & sharing safer, all-natural options. The common factor is building relationships that encourage successful results.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer at 43 followed by 4 surgeries & 18 months of treatment, coupled with dealing with anxiety/depression, I am passionate about helping others by sharing coping strategies & helping them take control of their lives.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Helping other cancer survivors feel they have some control about living a healthy life & feeling themselves again.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
Finding a healthy balance between work, family & selfcare. All of which are key to being successful, yet often are not considered equally important.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?
First, be clear about 'your why', why you get up each day to do what you do, why you want to be successful, why you wanted to start your business.
Second, be authentic, consistent & accountable, each & every day & when you get off track, go back to 'your why!'
Lastly, do research & really understand who your target or niche market is, bigger is not always better. Once you have a clear image of your ideal client/customers', make their needs, gaps, 'pain points' your priority to improve.
If there was one thing you could do repeatedly to help grow your business, what would it be?
Authentically, show up everyday with the purpose to help others live a healthier life.
What are some of the things you put in place to maintain a healthy work/life balance and to keep it all together?
After dealing with depression/anxiety, I learned the importance of a balance lifestyle & knowing my limits. I ensure I am active everyday, whether that is a 20 minute walk with my dog, or an hour workout. I begin each day with deep breathing exercises & listing 3 things that went well the previous day. Reminders are set in my calendar to eat breakfast, lunch, take a break from yoga & stop to make dinner, each day.
Recently, I move my laptop to the upstairs office (I had been working on the kitchen island for over a year). When the 'make dinner' reminder pops up on my screen, I close my computer, leaving the next few hours for cooking, eating as a family & kids activities.
Weekends are mainly for family & friends with the rare meeting or presentation.
Who are some of your favorite entrepreneurs? Do you have any must not miss business resources that you'd recommend?
One of the first self development books I read was Stephen R. Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. It still is one of my favourites. I also have been listening/watching Jim Rohn's on Youtube, love his simple yet effective messages.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Believing in yourself is half the battle & asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Where can people find you?
www.jennsmrz.com (coming soon)
LinkedIn
@jennsjourneytohealthyliving
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share then email community@subkit.com, we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.