Erica Webb never really intended to start her business Erica Webb Yoga and Pilates, but looking back, she saw that the ‘signs’ were always there.
Erica started her career as a Social Research Analyst in the Government and Not For Profit Sectors, but quickly realised the ‘corporate’ environment was not for her.
Having practiced yoga for several years, Erica decided to do her Yoga Teacher’s Training. Once she started her teacher training, Erica immediately felt the pull to move into teaching straight away. She had found her life’s calling.
Erica has been teaching for yoga and pilates for close to 10 years and recently, successfully launched a membership called the “Mindful Movement Virtual Studio”.
Erica believes that movement should be an exploration of possibility. An opportunity to be in deep connection and conversation with ourselves.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
“I love the autonomy and the freedom to make choices about what things look like and how I want to work around my top priority – my family. I get to drop my kids off to school, be there for special events and pickups and that was always something I wanted to be able to do. I also love the challenge of figuring out how to move to the next stage and the way that my business and personal development overlap and intertwine. I also love working in my own space! I never get bored in my own business – there are always so many things to learn and new ways to explore and develop. It’s an exciting place to be.“
What 3 pieces of advice do you wish you’d been given when you started?
- To set up the ‘right’ systems and processes from the beginning.
- To not limit myself and my dreams based on what other people are doing or on narrow definitions of what’s possible.
- That making money and serving/adding value are mutually beneficial goals.
What advice would YOU give someone thinking about starting a business?
- Think about the systems and processes you need in place to make your life easier. Even if it feels ‘over the top’ as you start out, it’s far easier to do so than it is to try to ‘fix up’ those issues down the track.
- Get clear on your income goals and make sure that the business model you’re choosing will allow you to achieve those goals.
- Find a mentor or a like-minded community to be a part of. Find an accountability buddy. Be willing to get back into the swing of things even when you face setbacks.
What skills and knowledge areas would you recommend those starting out in business get acquainted with quickly?
“Selling! It can feel easy and good to sell. Don’t let it be the sticking point.
Written communication, knowing how to give an ‘elevator pitch’ (hello connection statement!) and being confident talking about what you do. In my experience, when I haven’t been confident it has been because I didn’t 100% believe in what I was selling.
Tracking your numbers (i.e. money and other important figures)
Get good at believing in yourself and finding people who believe in you. Because not everyone will, and you don’t want the naysayers to distract you from your goal.“
What does your IDEAL business look like? Even if you’re not there yet, what would it look like if your business was ideal?
“My IDEAL business:
– I run a thriving online Mindful Movement Membership platform that allows me to help hundreds of women move well and feel well. This, in turn, provides the bulk of my revenue.
– I run 2 x annual weekend retreats (building up to week-long retreats in the future), regular workshops and immersions.
– I am invited regularly to speak and present on the importance of moving mindfully and how this can move us beyond our habits to a place that sees us with less tension and more connection.
– I see 4 1:1 clients per week (in person or online)
– My income is abundant and supports my family to travel, live in a beautiful home and contribute to charities and causes that are important to me.”
What problem does being a Member of the HerBusiness Network solve for you and your business? And, how?
“Community. I work by myself and can often feel the weight of not knowing who to turn to for advice. The HerBusiness network is always there to solve that problem! I love that women within the network have such a diverse range of experience and are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive.“
