Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Vanessa Limon, Owner of The Healing Project, located in Winnipeg, MB, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm the owner of The Healing Project, a counseling and coaching practice where I help young adults face and heal from various issues such as narcissistic parenting, parentification, codependency, and healing from emotional abuse, burnout, anxiety, and depression (and more). I've always had a passion for helping people in need and have served in the social services field for over ten years now, and I always knew I wanted to start something that's my own. The Healing Project has been a space with the purpose of getting in touch with difficult emotions; it welcomes growth, healing, and learning that life's not perfect, but we can still look at it in a different and better way. We have the strength to create positive changes and the life we wish for. I understand receiving mental health help can be quite expensive. It's one of the reasons why people stray away from seeking help, so I offer a sliding rate for my clients and try to make it a bit affordable.
Tell us about yourself
Since I was young, I just always knew I would help people in some capacity. I started charity projects very young and was interested in working in the social services industry. After about three years of working with youths, I knew I wanted to start something that's mine. I have experience in a range of areas, whether it's working with children, young adults, individuals with a disability, working on the crisis lines, etc., and along the way and with professional training and school, I've developed skills to help how I work with my clients. Seeing the progress or knowing and feeling that my clients trust me keeps me motivated; it makes me extremely heartfelt to know that they feel safe.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far was becoming a finalist for Women in Business Manitoba in 2020. I remember when I first got my business registered back in 2018, I told myself I would like to be a part of this event one day, and here I am!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I'm naturally introverted, so I find it difficult to put myself out there. When I say that, I even mean revealing my face on my Instagram platform or creating content and sharing personal stories so my audience can feel that connection. I have a love/hate relationship with social media, but receiving the support and praise I do online (and even the negative comments) has helped me grow and expand my practice outside Winnipeg, MB. I never expected my platform to be what it is now, and I'm so grateful.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- If it's speaking to you, it's for a reason.
- Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and connect with new and like-minded individuals (shoot them a message on Instagram, email them, and hand your business cards when you're at a coffee shop). Connecting with people is also a form of enriching your knowledge.
- Envision your ideal demographic it helps you solidify your visions! I understand when we think of our business growing, it's easy just to want to envision that a lot of people are coming to you but be clear on who you want your audience to be.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If it's speaking to you, it's for a reason. I remember many years back, I'd write in my journal or on my phone I'd open a business one day... I didn't know when, I didn't know how but deep down in my gut, I just knew it was going to happen; it's honestly mind-blowing reading back at those innocent notes and future letters I'd write to myself. I even chose the name back in 2014. Sometimes our biggest wishes don't come true right away, and it may even take years but don't give up - everything is working behind the scenes :)
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.healingproject.me/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehealingprojectbyvl/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehealingproject.me/
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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