As I sit and contemplate reaching the milestone of 10-years in private practice, I am flooded with a variety of feelings. When I moved to Virginia Beach in December 2008, little did I know my journey would lead me to where I am today. I officially started on April 13, 2009 as “Chiropractic with Care.” I admit that I opened the practice as a sole-proprietor. After asking some questions along the way and writing a business plan, I incorporated Body Logic in September of 2010. I learned a few things over those short 17 months. And I have continued to learn every day since. Did you know that only approximately 35% of small businesses survive their first 10 years of business? Simply put, the cards are stacked against you when you venture down the path less traveled. I am happy that it’s worked out! I’d like to share a couple of the feelings that I experience, and I thank you all for your contribution along the journey thus far.
Strength. Wow. 10-years. I am beyond thankful for my education from NYCC, and I feel confident that as a doctor I help people every day. The time I spend hands-on with patients is invaluable, and I was meant to be a chiropractor. However, I didn’t know I was meant to be a business owner as well! For 10-years, I’ve spent a fair amount of time searching deep down inside, questioning if I’m cut out for this. That wonderful NYCC education did not teach me how to be a business owner, but it did teach me a lot about connecting with people. My greatest challenge has been learning how to balance an objective approach to a business with my natural compassion for people. Emotions can make or break you. And business is business. It is my goal over the next 10 years to continue be driven by my compassion, with a healthy balance of reality.
Pride and humility. In general, I don’t consider myself a very proud person. Dr. Scott might chuckle, however, and say that I’m not shy of a competitive spirit! However, I am humble and recognize that I didn’t make it this far on my own. Pride provides the confidence to ask the hard questions. Asking for help is essential to success. Humility allows for an open-mind and the ability to learn from others. Even in the depths of the darkest moments of running a business, I recognized that I’m not the first to go through this. So, why reinvent the wheel? Learn from the experience of others and work the problem. I’ve chosen to surround myself with supportive, positive individuals both in my personal and professional life. Thankfully, these people aren’t simply cheerleaders. Instead, these people recognize the hard work that it takes while keeping me grounded when my head wants to go in the sand, or when I find myself dreaming up in the clouds.
Gratitude. My college swim-coach, whose life was cut short in 2018 after a long-time battle with cancer, taught me the power of having an attitude of gratitude. I look around and see so much to be thankful for. From family, friends, community, staff, and business associates, I have been blessed by those people around me. Every relationship, even the challenging ones, has helped me grow as a person. Business taught me to expect the unexpected and my children have taught me that I’m not in control of anything. I’m along for the ride and am grateful for all aspects of the journey.
Lastly, my patients. You’ve watched me grow up. I was only 25 years old the day I opened “Chiropractic with Care.” From marriage and children to business growth and a new location, I can’t thank you enough for the support that you’ve provided me along the way. I wish everyone the opportunity to Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better! It is because of you that I am able to have endless excitement over what the next 10 years will bring.