Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Hayley Belveal, Owner of Soccer Fitness and Recovery, located in Austin, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I provide mobile physical therapy to soccer players and active individuals. I treat patients with orthopedic conditions such as muscle strains, sprains, arthritis, meniscus or labral tears, and even patients who have just had surgery such as an ACL reconstruction. I bring the clinic to the patient and get them back to their activities as quickly as possible.
I bring a massage table for any hands-on work, such as soft tissue mobilization, and to perform techniques to improve joint mobility. I also have balance equipment, an agility ladder, cones, a soccer ball, bands, and really whatever is needed for recovery. I like to incorporate any equipment patients have available to them in their homes or community gym.
Tell us about yourself
I am originally from Lake Jackson, Texas, which is a small town south of Houston. I've always been really active and have tried tons of sports, from gymnastics to karate to soccer, so physical therapy was a natural fit for me. Currently, I live in Austin, and I started my business because of my frustration with having to see multiple patients in an hour in the traditional clinical setting. Patient volume expectations kept increasing. I was starting to feel like I couldn't help people in the way that they deserved, and so the job became less fulfilling.
I really enjoy what I'm doing now because I see patients with the frequency that I feel is most appropriate and can work with them one on one. I also love the flexibility I have in my schedule, which is needed because I have two young children. I am motivated each day because I can see the improvements my patients are having and how this changes their lives. Often patients believe they will never again be able to do the things they once could, and it's an amazing feeling when they are able to do those things again.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think my biggest accomplishment was actually starting the practice in the first place. It is the largest roadblock to the entire process. It's just a matter of telling your mind - I know you are scared, but it will be ok. A lot of the setup is time-consuming and frustrating as well, so once I got through all of that, things haven't been so bad!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Sales. I never wanted to be a salesperson, and I'm really not good at it either!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Learn a little bit, and then just do it. The best way to learn is to take action. I like the phrase, "Imperfect action is better than perfect inaction."
- Network! You have to put yourself out there and meet people. Join networking groups or give talks at the local library. You need to tell everyone you know, including friends and family, about your business. At first, I felt like this was "selling myself," but people will be proud of you. They will tell people they know, and this is how you get business. Just because you have a website doesn't mean people will find you!
- Change your mindset. A lot of people just starting out are unsure of themselves and have imposter syndrome. Read a book on mindset and practice thinking differently. I write affirmations on my bathroom mirror. Change the thoughts in your head that you tell yourself into positive ones, and then believe them!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.soccerfitnessandrecovery.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soccerfitnessandrecovery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soccerfitnessandrecovery/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-belveal-54599188/
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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