Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dora Carpenter, Founder of Institute of Professional Grief Coaching, located in Washington, DC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Institute of Professional Grief Coaching educates and advocates on a topic that no one wants to talk about, but EVERYONE needs to hear about loss, death, and grief. The occasion of death is inevitable and will directly or indirectly affect each of us at some point. When this happens, so many suffer in silence or rely on the myths or judgmental perceptions surrounding the loss. Grief is simply the normal and natural response to loss, and with better understanding, we are better able to cope with the many emotions resulting from loss.
Tell us about yourself
Working many years as a death care professional, I felt as though I buried as many hopes and dreams in the cemetery as bodies and cremated remains. Realizing that families needed more support after the services were over and the reality of the death set in and being denied by my employer to offer grief support to our families, I knew that I had to do more. After working with families, coaching, and training grief coaches but consistently hearing stories resulting from the lack of education on the sensitive and misunderstood topic of grief, I knew I still had to do more. If never before, it’s time for us to open the dialogue and talk about the elephant in the room.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am humbled and honored to have certified over 250 grief coaches in the U.S. and eight international territories, and I feel so much pride in seeing the work they are doing and the difference they are making in the lives of others.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Setting boundaries and practicing time management can be a challenge for business owners. While initially wearing “all” of the hats, you oftentimes forget the importance of self-care and taking me-time for your own physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Think big and do big. Make sure that your why is big enough so that you don’t let anyone steal your dream.
- Two steps back is okay. Just keep stepping, moving forward, and don’t quit.
- Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Feel the fear and do it anyway.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
My mantra for life is, “Everything in life is temporary, including life itself. Decide to say Yes! to the gift of now.”
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fromgrieftogratitude.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dora.carpenter.927/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doracarpenter/
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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