Meet LaToya Hill

We recently connected with LaToya Hill and have shared our conversation below.

LaToya, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

Overcoming is a strong word—I think it’s more about managing effectively. Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve developed anxiety, largely due to my tendency to always help and go beyond expectations. I’ve learned that you don’t really ‘overcome’ anxiety, but rather, you learn to manage it in harmony with your life and ambitions.

To cope, I’ve taken several proactive steps. I’m currently managing my anxiety with medication, which helps maintain my mental balance. Additionally, I incorporate ‘peace breaks’ into my daily routine, which are crucial for mental recalibration and help me stay centered amid the chaos of business demands.

Another significant change was learning to assertively say ‘No.’ This was crucial—not every opportunity or request is beneficial, and recognizing this has allowed me to avoid overcommitting myself, which is a common trigger for my anxiety. I’ve also become more strategic about the people I surround myself with, ensuring my environment is supportive and not overstimulating.

Lastly, I indulge in activities that bring me peace and joy, many of which are simple pleasures that enrich my spirit without adding financial burden. This holistic approach to managing my mental health is not just about persistence; it’s about thriving in spite of the challenges and continuing to pursue my passions and professional goals with vigor.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

At the core of my professional endeavors is a deep passion for empowering and supporting others—whether through legal consulting, wellness, or business development. I lead multiple ventures, including Hill’n University, Hill’n Hands Massage Therapy, and OptiOasis Wellness Spa, among others. Each brand has a unique focus, from assisting self-represented litigants in court to helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses across various industries like trucking, legal consulting, and more.

What excites me the most is the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s helping a client navigate the complexities of legal paperwork, guiding a new business owner through the steps of building their venture, or providing a therapeutic massage that eases someone’s pain—the impact is tangible and deeply fulfilling.

I’m particularly excited about a book I am working on, which will detail my journey from starting in massage therapy to working with professional athletes. This book not only shares my story but also aims to inspire others to persevere and thrive through their challenges.

Additionally, we’re gearing up for the next Black Massage Therapist Conference, which I organize. It’s an event dedicated to enhancing professional skills, networking, and addressing the unique challenges faced by Black massage therapists in the industry.

Each of these aspects of my work reflects my commitment to excellence, empowerment, and community enrichment. I am driven by the belief that everyone has the potential to achieve greatness, and I am here to offer the tools, knowledge, and support to help them do just that.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, the three qualities that have been most pivotal are resilience, adaptability, and knowledge acquisition.

Resilience has been crucial, especially when facing the inevitable challenges and setbacks that come with entrepreneurship and self-employment. It’s not just about bouncing back but also about forging ahead with a stronger, more determined mindset. For those early in their journey, I recommend embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Don’t shy away from difficult situations; instead, learn from them and use these lessons to build a more robust foundation for your future endeavors.

Adaptability has allowed me to pivot when necessary and seize opportunities that weren’t initially on my radar. The ability to adapt to changing market conditions, client needs, and personal growth has been invaluable. To develop this skill, stay curious and open-minded. Learn from different industries, cultures, and perspectives, and be willing to change your approach based on what the situation requires.

Knowledge acquisition is about continually learning and updating your skills. This is crucial in maintaining relevance and expertise in your field. Whether it’s legal nuances, new massage techniques, or the latest business strategies, staying informed has allowed me to offer the best services and advice to my clients. For those starting out, prioritize education—formal or informal. Attend workshops, read extensively, and seek mentorship. Never underestimate the power of knowledge in driving your success.

For anyone at the beginning of their journey, focus on cultivating these qualities within yourself. Be patient, persistent, and proactive in your personal and professional development. The path isn’t always clear or easy, but with these tools, you can navigate it successfully.

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?

One of the most significant challenges I face today is managing the complexities of scaling my diverse businesses while maintaining a high standard of service and personal well-being. As my enterprises grow, the demands on my time and resources increase, making it essential to find effective ways to balance expansion with quality and personal health.

To address this, I am focusing on strengthening the operational frameworks within each of my businesses. This involves investing in technology that automates various administrative tasks, which frees up time for me and my team to focus on more strategic and impactful activities. Additionally, I’m honing my delegation skills to empower my team members with more responsibilities, ensuring they have the training and resources needed to succeed.

Moreover, I’m continually refining my time management practices to better prioritize tasks and set boundaries that preserve my mental health. This includes scheduling regular ‘peace breaks’ and strictly defining work hours to ensure I have sufficient time for rest and personal pursuits. These steps are crucial not only for my well-being but also for sustaining the passion and energy I bring to my work.

It’s a continuous process, but by focusing on these areas, I am making strides in overcoming the challenge of growth without compromise—ensuring that both my businesses and personal life thrive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hillnhands.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hillnhandsmassage