We recently connected with Corisha Lawson and have shared our conversation below.
Corisha, 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.
Navigating Mental Health Challenges as a Small Business Owner: My Journey of Resilience
As a small business owner, I understand that mental health challenges can have significant impact on both personal well-being and professional success. Overcoming and persisting through these challenges requires self-awareness, proactive measures, and a supportive network.
Running a small business is an exhilarating endeavor, but it can also be incredibly demanding and stressful. Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I have faced my fair share of mental health challenges. However, instead of succumbing to them, I have learned to overcome and persist, ultimately growing stronger as both a business owner and an individual.
Self-Awareness and Acceptance:
The first step in overcoming mental health challenges was acknowledging and accepting their existence. I made conscious effort to become more self-aware, recognizing signs of stress, anxiety, and burnout. By acknowledging these emotions and accepting them as a normal part of the entrepreneurial journey, I was able to take proactive steps towards Self-Care.
Seeking Support:
Recognizing that I couldn’t face these challenges alone, I actively sought support from various sources such as SCORE mentorship for small business owners. I opened up to my loved ones about my struggles, allowing them to provide emotional support and understanding. Additionally, I sought professional help through therapy, which provided a safe space to discuss my concerns, gain valuable insights, and develop coping mechanisms specific to my situation.
Implementing Self-Care Practices:
To maintain a healthy work-life balance and promote my mental well-being, I integrated self-care practices into my routine. This included establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life, prioritizing time for relaxation and hobbies, and engaging in regular exercise and mindfulness activities. These practices helped me recharge, stay focused, and approach challenges with renewed sense of energy and clarity.
Building a Supportive Network:
Being part of a supportive community has played a pivotal role in my journey. I actively sought out other small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who understood the unique challenges that I faced. Through networking events, industry conferences, and online communities, I found like-minded individuals with whom I could share experiences, exchange advice, and seek guidance. Having a support network not only provided valuable insights, but also reminded me that I’m not alone in my struggles.
Adapting and Learning:
Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in the face of mental health challenges. I learned to adjust my expectations and plans when necessary, allowing myself the space to focus on my well-being. I explored new strategies for managing stress, such as delegating tasks, streamlining processes, and embracing technology solutions that eased the burden on me and my team. This adaptive mindset allowed me to continue moving forward despite the obstacles.
As a small business owner, my journey has been one of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. By cultivating self-awareness, seeking support, implementing self-care practices, building a supportive network, and adapting to change, I have successfully overcome the mental health challenges associated with entrepreneurship. My experiences have not only strengthened me personally, but have also allowed me to foster a healthier, more successful business.
Remember, every entrepreneur’s journey is unique, it’s essential to tailor strategies that work best for your specific circumstances. By prioritizing mental health and persisting through challenges, we can build thriving businesses while maintaining our Well-Being.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a small business owner and currently a full-time student at ogle for Cosmology as a professional in training. I’m proudly committed to offering a unique and pleasant experience with a wide array of salon and spa services. I provide expert advice and education, quality service, and diverse styling for my guests. My services are perfect for those that are seeking a new, exotic look that is customized just for them. I get to know you, take your lifestyle into consideration, and create your new look. I firmly believe there is a style for everyone. I want to educate my guests and invite them to be apart of the Influential culture.
I believe in showing transparency, creativity, diversity, and knowledge above all in this industry. Many separate business from their personal lives but to me, my business is personal, and i want my business to be a reflection of my best self. I treat my guests how i would want to be treated and hold my service to them with the same standards i hold for myself. I hope to attract like minded individuals who are keen to the value of what i have to offer. Given the right environment, nature never falters in showing the best version of itself. I make it my duty to provide the best environment for you to be the best version of yourself. I have taken up many classes and received certifications to prove my expertise in the field and for best healthy and safety practices.
I not only care for the external appearance of my guests, but also promote healthy lifestyle behaviors to ensure inner well-being.
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?
In a cleaning business and salon, there are several qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that can have a significant impact. Here are my three examples:
Attention to Detail: Attention to detail is crucial in both cleaning businesses and salons. In the cleaning business, it ensures that every nook and cranny is thoroughly cleaned, leaving the space spotless and appealing to clients. In a salon, attention to detail is essential for providing precise haircuts, nail treatments, or makeup applications. Paying attention to small details helps maintain high standards of cleanliness and professionalism, leading to customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Customer Service Skills: Excellent customer service skills are vital in both my cleaning business and salon services. In a cleaning business, interacting with clients, understanding their specific requirements, and addressing their concerns are essential for maintaining good relationships and securing long-term contracts. Similarly, in a salon, friendly and attentive customer service can enhance the overall experience for clients, making them feel valued and ensuring they return for future appointments. Strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities contribute to exceptional customer service.
Knowledge of Cleaning Products and Techniques (Cleaning Business): For a cleaning business, having comprehensive knowledge of various cleaning products and techniques is highly beneficial. Staying updated on the latest advancements in cleaning technology, understanding which products work best for different surfaces, and being aware of environmentally friendly cleaning practices are crucial. This knowledge enables efficient and effective cleaning, ensures the safety of both employees and clients, and reflects a commitment to sustainable practices.
I have Positive Reviews, Certifications and Trainings on Sanitation and Disinfecting for Health and Wellness in BOTH Fields. Im currently Studying Infectious Disease Control, on Both the Body and Your Environments caused by Air Borne Contamination, to Help prevent the Spread of Viruses which I think is cool🤓 So You See…
I not only care for the external appearance of my customers, but I also promote healthy lifestyle behaviors & Products to ensure inner well-being in a Safe and Peaceful Environment.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
IG & FB: Deloise Deep Cleaning & Disinfecting, LLC IG & FB: Influential Beauty Bar By Risha
Just a little #Support goes A long way🙃
I’m filled with so much gratitude for your time and consideration in my business. I Appreciate your willingness to support me and understand that your decision may have been influenced by various factors. While not everyone may be able to support me financially, you may still provide guidance, advice, or other forms of assistance that can contribute to my success.
I typically look forward to collaborating with individuals or businesses that complement my cleaning services or provide related services. Here are a few examples of potential collaborators:
Property Managers: Collaborating with property managers can be beneficial as they often oversee multiple properties and require regular cleaning services. They can refer your cleaning business to their tenants or clients, providing a steady stream of work.
Real Estate Agents: Real estate agents often need cleaning services for properties that are being prepared for sale or rental. By establishing connections with real estate agents, you can secure cleaning contracts for vacant homes, apartments, or commercial spaces.
Interior Designers: When interior designers complete a project, they may require professional cleaning services to make the space ready for the client. Partnering with interior designers can lead to ongoing collaborations, especially if you provide specialized services such as post-construction cleaning or deep cleaning.
Event Planners: Event planners organize various events like weddings, parties, and corporate functions, which often require pre-event and post-event cleaning. By networking with event planners, you can offer your cleaning services for these occasions.
Local Businesses: Collaborating with other local businesses can be mutually beneficial. For example, you can approach office complexes, restaurants, or retail stores to provide regular cleaning services. Networking with business owners or joining local business organizations can help you establish connections in your community.
Now, let’s discuss how you can connect with me if you are a potential collaborator:
Networking Events: I Attend local business networking events, trade shows, or industry conferences related to cleaning services, property management, or hospitality. These events provide great opportunities to meet potential collaborators and establish connections.
Online Platforms: I Utilize online platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, professional forums, or industry-specific websites to connect with individuals or businesses in related fields. Join relevant groups or communities and engage in discussions to expand your network.
Referrals: I Build strong relationships with my existing clients and request referrals from them. Satisfied clients may recommend my cleaning services to their contacts or collaborate with me in their own ventures.
Direct Outreach: I Research and identify potential collaborators in my area, such as property management companies, real estate agencies, or local businesses. Reach out to them directly through phone calls, emails, or by visiting their offices to introduce myself and discuss potential collaboration opportunities.
Collaborative Marketing: I’ve Considered partnering with complementary service providers, such as pest control companies or carpet cleaners, to offer bundled services or cross-promotions. Collaborative marketing efforts can help both parties expand their customer base.
Remember, collaboration opportunities can arise from various sources, so it’s important to remain proactive, build strong relationships, and consistently market your services to potential collaborators.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Finfluentialbeauty.ismystylist.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2P-ihQSpGCyQdGtwJFS9878kiUnAiUqVSJinfVl1CH5XEgUBH4btjQdEo&h=AT3WL3_XjMjB_i3Dj_vVs3I-3oGkzg5dWFUyV8f9SD-itLdL-dpeGTYgqkZ7ZIQQcN3zV5nQIHA9G8mgc-q80j9eUZxXmLuE6512Q5nk9wz2SS2I_EoFZRN3qfLVH863rCyCdfK5
- Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093557271703&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeloiseDeepCleaningDisinfecting
- Other: https://www.ziprecruiter.com/profile?tsid=111000066

Image Credits
Michael Randle Jr. -Photo Credit Gabriel Lawson -Photo Credit King Lott -Photo Credit
