Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kim Nodwell, owner, and operator of Pause Wellness Studio, located in Port Carling, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hi, my name is Kim. I am the owner/operator of Pause Wellness Studio
a wellness clinic located in the beautiful village of Port Carling, ON.
As Port Carling is located in one of Ontario's largest cottaging areas (Muskoka), Pause caters to not only the local people seeking treatment year-round but those who are here for the summer. Although our main focus is on clinical-based treatment, we have tried to offer a relaxing atmosphere which also lends itself perfectly to those seeking an hour of rest from their busy lives.
Tell us about yourself
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to help people. Like many people, I thought I'd like to work in a hospital - Maybe nursing? By the time I finished my first college degree, I had realized that wasn't for me. That is when a friend suggested I become an RMT. I thought, sure, I can do that for a year or so until I find what I really want to do. I had no idea how much medical knowledge was required in Ontario to become an RMT, but it was just the challenge I was looking for. I have now been an RMT for almost ten years.
Throughout my career, I have worked in spas and clinics with other RMTs, chiropractors, physiotherapists, etc., always having the idea I would open my own clinic someday. Then March of 2020 came and stopped all our lives. During the spring lockdowns, I had been doing a lot of thinking and debated how I wanted to go back to work when all this was over. Would I continue my RMT career or retire and move on? I was still going back and forth on what to do when I met a lady renting some office space. Quickly the dream I had of owning my own clinic started to form, and before I knew it, I had a business name, clinic space rented, and a website.
I have lots of motivation each day, but it comes down to my original dream as a little girl - helping people. I love knowing that someone's pain can be eased after visiting us for treatment.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think my biggest accomplishment to date as a business owner is that I am one - a business owner. At the time, my business seemingly came together quickly; looking back, I had been working on it for years with multiple business plans and possible locations. It turned out I just needed the right time to follow my dream.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balance. I often find myself treating clients all day only to go home (or stay at the clinic) and be working late into the night/weekend on my computer doing various administration work: charting, accounting, emails, advertising, etc. The business brainstorming never really ends; it is something I have found scheduling weekends/weeknights "free" helps.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Confidence: Don't let yourself get in the way. You can manifest those dreams into a reality. I believe that all those times I wrote out business plans, looked for office space, etc., helped me to start my business when the timing was right.
- Hard work: Be prepared that no matter how you start your business, it is not easy - growing pains will be there at the start. It will take a lot of hard work, sometimes more than you think you're willing to put in, but it is worth it in the end, if for nothing else but the experience and the lessons you'll learn in pursuing your goal.
- Enjoy the ride! This has been one of the most difficult but rewarding experiences for me thus far. I am forever going to be learning and growing within this world of business ownership. I just hope I can always remember to find joy in the experience.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.pausewellness.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portcarlingrmt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pause.wellness.studio/
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.
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