Lately, I have gotten some questions about how to create a career in the health and wellness industry, so I thought I would jot down a few of my thoughts on how to get started. (and as I compiled this list, I realized this is a really good list for ANYONE, starting ANY business.)
People are now getting hip to the truth that taking care of their whole wellbeing is integral to their success and happiness in life, so the need to qualified and passionate people in this career space is vital and opportunities for a career in wellness has never been better. The range of careers in the health and wellness industry can vary pretty hugely. But at the core of them all, is the focus on health, whether that be in preventative care, rehabilitative care, or curative care. But how can you have a long and successful career in this industry? Here are a few of my ideas.
Create a Plan.
If we don’t know where we are going, we can end up anywhere, so before you get started, have a simple but specific plan of what your business will look like. Decide on the product or service you are going to provide, setting which you will provide it, who your potential clients and customers will be, and how you will be in contact with them. This plan can be complicated or simple to start with, I like using the Business plan from Small Business Administration. But (this is very important) set a timeline for yourself, because it’s so easy to plan, think, research, organize months and even years away, especially when you are just beginning and feel unsure of yourself. So create a plan and begin. Don’t worry about being perfect, you will learn and grow as you go along. And with our online world today, it’s easy to practice your craft and hone your knowledge by creating for social media sites and your blog. A website is a must these days, and you can create a simple inexpensive one. Social media to websites, blogs, and articles are great placed to begin creating great buzz and community around wellness and health.
Take Care of Yourself
This is so important! As a wellness professional, you have to walk the talk, to manage the stress and keep a clear headspace of starting a new business. So keep yourself and your own health as a property in your life, it’s easy to let this slip when you suddenly have less “free time”. Starting a new business is hard work, and can be quite long and tough, both physically and mentally, os it is important to not forget about yourself in the process. So whether you teach yoga, are a personal trainer or staring a new dietetic/nutrition practice, be mindful of yourself and your needs and is important to schedule your self-care in.
Learn and grow
For most wellness careers, you will need a certain level of knowledge about things in order to be able to practice. Having a sound knowledge in your area, as well as understanding the science behind it all is going to enable you to practice. You’re not going to be able to be a yoga instructor without hours and hours of practice and teaching. Just like you couldn’t become an AirEvac employee without the necessary training to help save lives. So look for what training and qualifications you will need to get to learn to skills you need in order to serve your clients fully.
Find Mentors
If you are able to find a mentor, then it is a great way to get some connections and leads in the industry. They will also enable you to learn through a more hands-on approach and follow their example of how they got to where they are today. So start looking at the community people you already know or even search the inter-webs for people already doing the work you admire and follow their lead.
Network
Although finding people online is great in order to make some wellness connections, it is vital to network with people in “real life too” A thriving business has to have a word of mouth referral system too. Be open to meeting new people and chatting through some ideas and perhaps some cross-promotion. This can be a great way to get advice, as well as to get some possible referrals and new clients.
Ok, now go! Get out there and do your good work in the world!
I believe in you!
Be well,
Sally
**This is a collaborative post, that contains affiliate links.**
