The first step of entrepreneurship: Find something you are passionate about.
Some people inherit money when a parent passes away. I inherited my Great Aunt “Sis”. At 86 years old, Sis was fun-loving and active despite her Alzheimer’s.
I began teaching senior adults while I was caring for her. When a fall ultimately ended her life, I shared this news with my class. In turn, most of the class started sharing their “biggest fears” with me — which inspired me to write a 30-day challenge for them. Thus, my business was born.
TAKE THE RISK … AFTER DOING THE MATH
I started by renting a dance studio by the hour, and then a space at The Mary C O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center. I knew I needed something more permanent, and through networking in the community, I rented my first space and opened on Jan. 1, 2023.
With a 900-square-foot unit and some low-cost purchases, I was in business — not to mention scared out of my mind. Six months later, I knew I needed more room. The unit next to mine was available, so I doubled my space. My business continued to grow.
A client approached me last year about buying her commercial building. The answer was yes — not knowing whether I could even get a loan big enough to buy it. Last September, we closed on the building and renovated it to open on Jan. 1, 2026.
IT’S NOT WORTH DOING IF IT ISN’T FUN
When we talked about her life, Sis would always say, “It’s not worth doing if it isn’t fun.” This message resonated deeply after my personal career in corporate America was filled with spreadsheets and seriousness.
Over time, I have found my inner silliness and gotten so much better at having fun and not taking myself so seriously.
THE BEST INVESTMENT IS IN YOURSELF
Being a small business owner can be lonely and stressful. Even with a supportive spouse, I typically carry the mental load alone, and it can be heavy. When you must be the instructor, bookkeeper, janitor, customer greeter, marketer and expert at everything, imposter syndrome can rear its ugly head.
When I have tough days, I listen to positive and motivational speakers like Zig Ziglar and Les Brown. What I learn from them helps keep me focused on why I do what I do.
Most of all, as Martin Luther said, “Pray like it all depends on God, then when you are done, go work like it all depends on you.” Your business is a gift to the clients you serve and worth all your prayers and hard work. Serve your clients honorably and humbly and trust God’s plan.
Cathy Wildschuetz is the owner of Naturally Guided Health. Reach her at naturallyguidedhealth@gmail.com or (228) 215-0909 or learn more at www.naturallyguidedhealth.com or facebook.com/naturallyguidedhealth.