We recently connected with Ligaya Kelly and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ligaya, thank you for joining us today and sharing your experiences and acquired wisdom with us. Burnout is a huge topic these days and so we’d love to kick things off by discussing your thoughts on overcoming or avoiding burnout
Overcoming burnout as the owner of a pet care business requires a proactive and holistic approach. Recognizing the importance of self-care, I’ve adopted the principle of putting my oxygen mask on first. This involves prioritizing my well-being and taking breaks when needed. I have implemented ‘me’ days into my schedule, allowing myself dedicated time to recharge. Seeking guidance from a business coach has proven invaluable, providing me with insights and strategies to navigate challenges. Moreover, involving my family in significant decisions fosters a supportive environment. Embracing creative outlets, such as painting and drawing, offers a therapeutic escape, while engaging in physical activities like hiking allows me to clear my mind. By balancing self-care, professional guidance, and personal passions, I can re-enter my pet care business with renewed energy and a fresh perspective.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Embarking on this entrepreneurial journey, I am the proud owner of a thriving pet hotel nestled in Santa Clarita, California, a venture that has been flourishing since 2011. The success of this pet haven is a testament to the unwavering support of my dedicated family, who actively contribute to the day-to-day operations. Their assistance has not only allowed the business to flourish but has also afforded me the opportunity to expand my horizons. In the coming six months, I am set to launch a new chapter as a business coach for fellow pet professionals. With the valuable experience gained from running my pet hotel and the support of my family, I am eager to share insights, strategies, and support to help others in the pet industry thrive and succeed.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey as a business owner, three things that were most impactful were accounting acumen, effective leadership skills and positive mindset and resilience.
A strong foundation in accounting has been crucial in managing finances, making informed decisions, and ensuring the financial health of my business.
Effective leadership has been instrumental in fostering a positive work culture, motivating teams, and driving business growth. By cultivating strong communication, empathy, and delegation skills, I’ve been able to inspire my team, foster collaboration, and navigate challenges with resilience.
Maintaining a positive mindset and resilience in the face of adversity has been essential for sustaining motivation, overcoming obstacles, and persevering through setbacks. Embracing a growth mindset, reframing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, and practicing self-care are key strategies for building resilience.
My advice for those early in their entrepreneurial journey is to focus on continuous learning, resilience, and building strong relationships. Invest time in developing key skills relevant to your industry, seek mentorship from experienced professionals, and remain adaptable in the face of change. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay committed to your vision, and surround yourself with a supportive network of peers, mentors, and advisors who can offer guidance and encouragement along the way. By prioritizing personal and professional development, staying resilient, and fostering positive relationships, you can position yourself for long-term success as an entrepreneur.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My biggest help in facing challenges and learning what I needed for success has been my business coach. He knows the pet care industry and understands my specific needs. He’s like a guiding light, showing me things I hadn’t thought about before. Being a business owner, you often get too caught up in the daily stuff, and he’s helped me step back and see the bigger picture. That’s been super important for making smart decisions and moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bouquetcanyonkennels.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bouquetcanyonkennels/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/226740880690687
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SCVBCKennels
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@BCKSCV
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pnBYnUYxz2p_fQd3v8jggg
Image Credits
Ligaya Kelly; Alisha Jucevic; Kendra Schultz
