It’s 2019 and black women are still spearheading the world with aspirational carers and businesses. Sadly, the world still doesn’t grasp the memo. Women are paid less than men in the average work place and people of color are increasingly being oppressed even after adopting strong influential identities in both political and entrepreneurial offices.
Change doesn’t happen through silence so I’ve decided to spotlight several women who I’ve noticed take a stabs in their businesses despite the stifling of their voices.
Before we get started give us a peak into your lifestyle. Who are you and what you’ve been getting into.
My name is Shayna Sanders and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I opened my private practice, Courage to Heal Counseling Services, LLC in November 2012. In addition to working with clients, I also facilitate professional trainings focusing on mental health issues. I am also in the process of creating a blog, www.twobossesandablog.com, with my aunt, LaShawn Tracy (a fellow entrepreneur). When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, working on house projects and going on walks.
When did you get bit by the entrepreneurial bug? Or did you start your business off as a hobby?
I knew since middle school that I wanted to be in the counseling field and work for myself. I planned my life around those two goals.
Tell us about your purpose with your business.
I provide talk therapy services to clients. I work with clients to find ways to improve different areas of their life, reaching their fullest potential. Some of the issues that I help to address are depression, anxiety, stress, work issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
What does being a woman of color mean to you? How does this if any affect your current business?
I am proud to be a woman of color. I think that it’s challenging enough to be a woman in general running a business but I think there is extra pressure being a woman of color. In a perfect world we would all be treated equally and have the same opportunities, unfortunately that isn’t our reality. Prior to starting my business, a white male, who worked as a consultant for my previous employer, told me that he didn’t think getting into business for myself was the best idea. He questioned me on how I would get clients and if I was fully prepared to own a business. His attitude and negativity only pushed me to want to work for myself even more. On a positive note, I think that being a black therapist has allowed me to help clients of color with treating their mental health issues. Many of my clients have told me that they were specifically seeking a therapist of color who they thought shared similar values and experiences with them.
What’s the most fulfilling part about being an entrepreneur during a time where women are deciding to stand out as a subculture with movements like “Me too” and “Women in Politics”?
I love owning my own business! It can be extremely stressful at times but I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished and continue to accomplish. It’s very fulfilling to see how I’ve been able to help my clients and also encourage women to pursue their dreams.
What has been the biggest change in your specific industry since you’ve started?
The biggest change has been a shift to doing everything electronically from paperwork to seeing clients by video chatting. I will admit that I am still very old school in many ways. There are a lot of changes I haven’t made and may not make. I still like doing paperwork by hand and meeting with clients in person. As with anything, some change can be for the better or worse, you have to do what’s comfortable for you!
What has been your biggest challenge thus far in business? Was this your first go around with Courage to Heal Counseling Services?
My biggest challenge has been learning how to be a businesswoman! I have no formal training in business. Aside from just wanting to have my own business I really had no clue what I was doing from a business perspective. I consider myself very fortunate because I was able to get a lot of great advice from other therapists with private practices. I am also very fortunate because this was my first time opening my business and it’s been successful.
What are you most proud of within your business?
I am most proud of the fact that I have done so much on my own. Obviously, we never fully accomplish anything alone, other people support us in different ways. However, I am responsible for every aspect of my business. Working for yourself is a huge risk but it’s one I’ve been willing to take.
Living in a digital age we are constantly reminded about our counterparts and competitors, how do you handle these reminders? How do you stave off imposter syndrome?
I try to stay focused on the vision that I have for my own life and future. It’s extremely easy to get sucked into looking at the great aspects of someone else’s situation. I try to remember that we all have our own path to follow.
How do you find time to manage your home life while maintaining healthy familial relationships?
When I opened my business I knew I never wanted to work a traditional work schedule. I work 3-4 days a week and am very mindful of drawing the line between work and personal life. As a business owner it’s hard to completely stop working but I try to set limits. I spend time with family and friends and make sure that I tend to my own self-care. Being a therapist is rewarding but it can also be draining. It’s important to have my own positive personal relationships to support me.
What has been the best tool you’ve used, whether it be book, inspirational figure, digital service, program etc, that has really helped you in the entrepreneurial world?
I have used the people in my life as inspiration. Sometimes it’s something small that reminds me to keep pushing forward when I feel like giving up.
What can we expect from Courage to Heal Counseling Services in the near future? Any new business goals and ventures? How can my readers keep up with your journey?
I want to expand what I do beyond the therapy room and continue learning about new ways to support people. I hope to facilitate more trainings. I will also continue to work www.twobossesandablog.com. My blog will allow me to unveil a different side of my personality that doesn’t always come out when I work with clients. We will address an array of topics including family, relationships and current topics.
Share a few encouraging words with a fellow woman of color who is seeking to start her own business but is weary due to the oppression she may feel.
Don’t give up on yourself! Keep moving forward with whatever your dreams and goals are because you can accomplish them. Take it one day at a time and when you hit bumps in the road keep going!
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your business and insight with us. It’s hard running a business but it can be ten times harder to progress if the world constantly reminds you that you are not worth as much as your white male counterpart.
If you haven’t read about the other women in business be sure to check them out here.
If you have any questions for Shayna be sure to drop a comment below!
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