As I continue to work on my Sanity Plan, I am noticing people all around me with Sanity Plans of their own. I am always keeping a look out for how people take steps (big or small) to accomplish a goal or even change the direction of their whole life.

Today’s story is about my wonderful hair dresser. I’ve known Teri for about 4 years and have had a front row seat to watch how she was able to manifest a significant change in her life. I know it will inspire you as well.

I first met Teri in a fancy salon in our downtown historic section. The setting was gorgeous and I always felt like a pampered queen when I went there. I didn’t mind the extra expense because I typically only go once or twice a year (read: lazy mom-do). I’d been passed around to a number of ladies until Teri cut my hair, and it looked great and stayed great for months. I also looked forward to our conversations about life, kids, marriage, writing, and business. The business talks were my favorite subject as I have my MBA and she was working on her BA in Business at the time.

Teri’s Sanity Plan

Teri had more than 20 years of experience in hair care, with a considerable list of devoted clients. She was growing tired of the politics at the salon and was concerned that her customers were not getting the best experience. Teri made a decision to venture off on her own.

She rented a tiny shop less than a mile away and set up a single chair and washing station. She and her husband updated and decorated the space to capture that modern salon feel. Teri worked to set up her business, learning each step that was required along the way.

The Results

I was a little apprehensive for my first visit because I’d really enjoyed the ambiance of the previous salon. But the experience was actually so much better for me, without the chaos and the noise, and we easily continued our ongoing conversation. It was private and cozy, offering a very different feel than I was used to.

The best part of this change, which took an enormous amount of courage, is that I have never seen a more happy and relaxed business owner. It’s been the better part of a year and I can see the true joy and relief she experiences in being her own boss and having full control over her career.

Her favorite parts?

• Setting her own schedule
• Having a private space to serve her clients and be creative
• Getting time to talk one-on-one with her customers
• Keeping more of the profits from her work
• Being able to work alone if she chooses
• Learning all aspects of business ownership and salon operation

What is so inspiring to me about Teri’s change is her devotion to the process. She made a decision, set her plans in motion, and followed through. There was no waffling, no back and forth, or letting her fears of the unknown stop her from achieving this dream. She negotiated a peaceful transition of her personal clients from the old salon (most of whom she had brought there). And she is conscious of tackling each new process with measured precision, allowing for time to learn new skills before beginning a new project.

Thanks for the inspiration, Teri. Keep up the good work!

Do you have a Sanity Plan Story? Contact me to set up an interview or recommend the story of someone you know.