Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dolly Ferraiuolo, CEO of SHARE of Florida, located in Safety Harbor, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own a behavioral health group practice. We see all individuals who struggle with trauma, neuro-divergence, anxiety disorders, and anything under the sexual health and wellness umbrella. I also work closely with the LGBTQ+ community.
Tell us about yourself
I was adopted out of foster care, so I sustained my own history of trauma. I always wanted to work with people and knew I wanted to "help" people, but it wasn't until receiving my own Autism diagnosis and working through the difficulties of that process did I truly realize the gap in inclusive and intersectional care in my community. This inspired me to want to work one-on-one with people in a clinical setting. I opened my practice to provide authentic services in my community, and I've never been happier.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As an Autistic individual who was in foster care, the fact that I even graduated college and have a successful business is my biggest accomplishment. In terms of business, I am so proud of myself for my ability to network and connect with others in the community in a way that not only supports the community but also allows my business to expand. I am 2 years ahead on my business plan, and that is the most exciting thing of all!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Not having enough hours in the day! I wish I could divide myself into five other versions of myself. If I just had more "me's," I could blast off! It's so frustrating to have to follow the plan and the checklist one day at a time and not rush to the end.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Organize! You can't just jump right in. The foundation of your business is important, and not enough people understand that. If you're not an organized person and you have low executive functioning, be honest with yourself about this and work to identify solutions to these deficits before getting into the business.
- Say what you mean and mean what you say. Follow through in your business helps you build trust with staff and/or clients.
- Never allow yourself to feel comfortable. Not saying you should live in anxiety. However, those who grow comfortable in their business stop striving for more, and they will be less likely to be prepared for roadblocks as they come up. It's important to set yearly and quarterly goals for yourself and your business to ensure everything is always heading toward a purpose.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.shareofflorida.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SHAREofFlorida
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shareofflorida/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shareofflorida/
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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