Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Katja Holzhei, founder of Neuland Yoga, located in Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
NEULAND YOGA is post-lineage yoga - the modern, open-minded, and undogmatic fusion of diverse yoga traditions, contemporary movement principles, and scientifically proven mindfulness techniques. The German word "Neuland" translates into "new territory" and not only represents my home country Germany where I was born and raised. Neuland also stands for what yoga means to me: a lifelong journey with often unexpected discoveries, pleasant and unpleasant experiences, and a vast amount of body-, mind-, and soul-nourishing opportunities.
Somebody who sets foot on NEULAND is breaking fresh ground and is discovering unknown frontiers. Embarking on such an experience needs an open mind, the spirit of adventure, courage, self-confidence, and sometimes a professional guide to go through the first steps or the whole journey together.
I consider myself such a guide, more than a teacher or instructor. People that take my (private and public) classes appreciate the welcoming, non-judgemental, safe, and mixed-level-friendly environment. I offer yoga to adults of all ages, genders, backgrounds, and abilities. Everyone starts where they are, and together we explore the way ahead of us.
Tell us about yourself
Before offering yoga, I worked for more than ten years as a full-time copywriter and journalist. Over time I focused more and more on yoga, meditation, and mindfulness until it finally became my primary business. (I still enjoy writing and being creative with language and words, though!) My daily motivation comes from my passion and a deep curiosity for everything yoga and yoga-related - it's not only a job but also a hobby and a (hopefully) never-ending love and life story.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as the owner of Neuland Yoga is establishing a small brand known for modern, knowledgeable, non-intimating, accessible teachings and everything I have learned so far. After teaching myself how to do video recording and editing, I have started a Youtube channel and offer an online membership now with monthly themes and weekly curated playlists. Being on camera made me very uncomfortable initially - but overcoming fears and trying new things is another significant accomplishment.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most challenging things about being a small business owner and solopreneur is making a living, especially when sick or needing a vacation. While employees have the luxury of paid time off, contractors and freelancers have not. With each missed class and job opportunity, you lose the money needed to pay your bills. It also can be challenging to work late at night, early mornings, or during weekends and holidays. Owning a small business comes with a lot of fun and a lot of sacrifices and uncertainty - you never know how the next month will look financially.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a plan B. It's ok to change plans and businesses if something doesn't work out.
- Follow your passion and the money. Look for opportunities that align with your values and pay your bills.
- Take time off to recharge and relax! You can only work for your dream if you don't burn out.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Thank you for reading and giving me the opportunity to share my story with you. All the best to you and your business!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: www.neuland-yoga.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neulandyoga
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neuland_yoga/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KatjaHolzhei
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katja-holzhei/
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.