Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Samantha Salvaggio, a Chronic Illness Health Coach, based in Hillsborough, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Chronic Illness Coach that helps people with chronic illnesses connect to their bodies, shift their mindsets and build a life they are obsessed with. Whether through personalized coaching or community, the goal is to live with illness and thrive.
Tell us about yourself
At the age of 19, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Finding others like me was so hard, leaving me feeling sad, confused, and alone. Eventually, I came to accept MS and prioritize myself. During this time, I became a certified personal trainer, earned my Master's degree in Nutrition, and transformed my own health. Now, 16 years since being diagnosed, I have learned so much along the way. But, I still remember those initial feelings of confusion and loneliness. I never want anyone else to experience that - that is my motivation. When chronic illness turns your world upside down, I am here to help you reconnect to your body, rebuild your foundation, and feel less alone along the way.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Honestly, it's the feedback I receive from other chronic illness warriors that my content has helped them through some of their darkest moments and has given them hope for the future. Taking the leap to open a business is one thing, but to hear how it directly positively affects someone's life is a whole other accomplishment that never gets old.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most difficult things for me is the unknown. A lot of building my business is figuring out what works and what doesn't, how to do things, or what resonates with my community. As someone who likes to be perfect, it can be challenging to not always have the correct answer right away. However, the longer I own my business, the more I realize that it's actually a good thing because the beginner's mind fuels creative problem-solving and finding opportunities that otherwise may be missed.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, just start - whatever it is, don't get paralyzed by feelings of overwhelm or worry - just do the damn thing instead. Second, get used to not knowing what you are doing. It's okay (and completely normal) not to know everything. Use trial and error to figure out what works and what doesn't. Third and possibly most important, take care of yourself. You can't be there for others or run a business if you don't prioritize your own health and well-being.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.samanthasalvaggio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slsalvaggio/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3reNNKN
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@slsalvaggio
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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