Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey by launching a wellness business but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lori Desjardine, owner of Pillars of Wellness, based in Burlington, ON, Canada.
What's your business and who are your customers?
Pillars of Wellness is an integrated care center where we provide rehabilitation and wellness for individuals across their lifespan. We aim to help people live healthy and fulfilling lives. We have several health practitioners working under one roof, including Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, Naturopathy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Counseling, Acupuncture, and Yoga Therapy. Through collaborative teamwork, joint assessments, and best practices, we can reduce redundancy of care, be efficient with our treatment, speed recovery and save you time and money. We are a real one-stop shop!
Tell us about yourself
When I was young, I was heavily involved in competitive sports. I was often injured and in and out of rehabilitation clinics. I was always very appreciative of the work they did, and I wanted to help others the way they helped me. After several years of practicing as an Occupational Therapist, I realized the importance of "whole person" care. I had always dreamed of owning my multidisciplinary clinic, but it wasn't until I met my husband that I realized the possibility of my dream. With his guidance and support, together, we were able to bring to life "Pillars of Wellness," an integrated care clinic where we treat individuals across the lifespan uniquely and collaboratively to maximize health and wellness. Since opening this clinic, I have seen the actual benefits of integrated care and finally feel like I am helping others to the best of my abilities.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is sticking to my vision despite the challenges and roadblocks along the way. Often it seemed easier to stick with the "status quo," however, staying focused helped move the business in the right direction and allowed me to hire like-minded individuals who also would help support and grow our vision.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, the most challenging part of owning your own business is the emotional roller coaster that you're on. Some days you're so excited and feel like you're on top of the world, only to feel frustrated and defeated a few hours later. You put your heart and soul into your business, so it is hard not to take things personally or let them affect you emotionally. However, you start to "roll with the punches" and see through the challenging times with time. It builds strength and character.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Balance passion with wisdom - passion will drive you to improve your business; wisdom will point you in the right direction.
- Be solution-focused - make sure your business fills a gap in service or provides a niche.
- Network - always be looking for opportunities to connect with others on all platforms; the more extensive the network, the bigger the reach.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://pillarsofwellness.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POW.Burlington/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pillarsofwellness/
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.