Growing up, I was always the try hard kid, the one who pushed hard to succeed in sports, school, or anything I took on. That drive followed me into adulthood. I earned two engineering degrees, worked at a healthcare software company, and kept chasing excellence through athletic competition. I first turned to yoga as a form of cross-training, something that would improve my mental and physical performance. But over time, it became much more. The real shift came through the philosophies of yoga, staying open-minded, being non-judgmental, and living fully in the present. I came to realize that my need to achieve was rooted in insecurity and a deep need to feel worthy. Yoga showed me that I could still be driven and ambitious, but now with more self-love and less pressure to prove something.

Building a Yoga Business from the Heart

My yoga business didn’t start as a business at all. I simply wanted to share what had helped me, so I hosted free classes in the park, posted content online, and supported others in the yoga community however I could. I volunteered at classes and built connections without expecting anything in return. At times, it felt defeating—especially on days when no one showed up. I battled doubt and imposter syndrome but kept reminding myself that if even one person found value next time, it would be worth it. Those early efforts began to pay off. Slowly, students started showing up. Some brought connections. Some offered opportunities. Without even trying to build a “business,” I was building a community—and that eventually translated into unexpected income.

This is still a beginning for me. I’m finding my way. But through it all, I’ve come to believe deeply in the power of staying committed even when things feel tough. What keeps me grounded is my mission: to help people through yoga the same way it helped me. And if that means enduring no-shows, doubt, or slow growth, it’s worth it—for the chance to change even one life while creating a life I believe in.

Lessons I've Learned

What I’ve learned is that vulnerability is part of the path. You’ll doubt yourself. You’ll question your value. But those moments don’t define the journey—they are the journey. I also learned that building something meaningful takes patience. When you act from genuine care, not just strategy, people feel that. The quiet classes, the awkward beginnings, the uncertainty—it all matters. It’s all part of it.

Even if you're still finding your voice or your place in this space, keep offering value. Keep showing up with heart. Eventually, your people will find you.

My Message to Founders

Stay close to your purpose. There will be days when nothing seems to work, when self-doubt feels louder than your passion. But keep going anyway. The people who need your work are out there, and they may find you when you least expect it. Focus on the service, not the scoreboard. Give value without needing validation. And trust that if you’re aligned with what truly matters to you, it will all connect in time. What you’re building matters more than you realize—and the world needs it.

Business Takeaways from Yoga Founders Magazine

Start with Service

Lead with value before revenue. It builds trust and genuine connection.

Stay Consistent

Growth is slow at first. Keep showing up, even when no one else does.

Build Community First

Business grows when people feel seen, supported, and part of something.

Trust the Unknown

Uncertainty is part of the path. Keep walking with heart, not just strategy.

Purpose Over Perfection

Let passion guide you more than pressure. Progress beats perfection.