Reflection on 1 Year in Business

This November is such a momentous month for me. It’s officially one year since I flung open the doors of Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness. Although this is my third business venture, this one took me for a loop. Over the past year, I’ve had several setbacks, including employee turnover and business losses— all normal occurrences when it comes to operating a business.

As I ruminate on how I even got this far, I hear the echoing of my dear friend Ruth from medical school saying, “Gina, one day you’re going to have a medspa.” That seed planted inside my head flourished into the business you all see now.

I’ll be the first to tell you that running a business isn’t for the faint-hearted; however, once you get over a few hurdles, it’s all worth it at the end.

My amazing clients keep me going. When I see their skin transformation, and how my team and I had something to do with that, I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

1. It’s OK to alter your business model. When I started out, I had a business plan and jumped right in. I learned that what I thought the need would be was actually different from my new clients needs. In addition, my schedule changed a few times, so the business model needed to change to a concierge type, where clients would see me on certain available days. Though I didn’t want to switch things up at first, I realized that if I want to grow, I had to adjust the business model based on these things.
2. Build Self Care into the work day. With a full day of clients, I started to fatigue. I realized I needed a break to rest, eat, etc. So I created blocks in my day so I could rest, eat, watch a TV show, meditate, stretch – basically anything to condition my mind, body, spirit. By this way, I was able to service everyone with a better energized attitude.
3. Every client is not yours and it’s ok. I had some potential clients come in for consultations, and had to refer them elsewhere or decline service if I felt their expectations were out of my scope of practice. For me, it’s more of a “find a good fit” atmosphere than yes let’s take everyone’s money. I want to make sure I can truly help you in the capacity that you desire. And if I can’t, I’m up front about it.
4. Building a team takes time. Team members have to be vetted and tried and tried again. My current team is small but they’ve shown me where their loyalty and commitment to my growth stands. I appreciate that. Building a team takes times.
5. Set Boundaries with Friends, Family and Clients. Everyone loves discounts and freebies. I’ve learned to manage everyone’s expectations as to cost of service, and scheduling treatments. Setting boundaries has helped me set a precedent for my friends, family, and clients. They respect my business more because they see that I mean business.

This year has had so many lessons. These are just the top 5. I’m looking forward to learning and growing with my business. Till next time.