La’Alishia Gilbert | Yoga Instructor & PMA

We had the good fortune of connecting with La’Alishia Gilbert and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi La’Alishia, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Trying to find a balance between work, family, social, and personal time has been a real challenge in the last few months. I can honestly say that the time away from work due to the Covid-19 pandemic, gave me time to rest, spend more time with my immediate family, and finally organize my affairs. I bought an organizer. I set goals for myself and my business. I created plans to reach those goals. I had the time, so I used it to evaluate what I have done, examine what I am currently doing, and explored options for growth and advancement with each of my businesses. When I first opened my studio I wanted to be everywhere, all the time, just to show how great yoga is for the community and for self. I eventually realized that no matter how available I made myself, or how accessible my classes were (e.g. online, at a studio, outside at a park near you, at your work, home sessions), or even how great I knew yoga was for the health of the body, mind, and spirit, people still had to want to be healthy, physically active, and a willing participant. So now, I am genuinely taking my time to plan lessons, create routines and playlists, choose new locations, and expand my business. I use to be afraid to branch out, especially with online classes. But this pandemic has forced me out of my comfort zone, and the result is growth! As an entrepreneur, what’s most important for my brand is self-awareness, recognizing the wants and needs of each client, and providing quality service and products.

What should our readers know about your business?
a. Determination sets me apart from others. I figured that GOD set me on this path, so who can stop this progress but me! b. My proudest moment came at my lowest point. There was a period when I was spending more than I earned. Any business owner will tell you that this is apart of the process. But what they never follow with, is that many new businesses fail for that same reason. I didn’t know how I was going to pay my bills. I ate noodles and leftovers. Instead of shopping and spending unnecessary money on clubs and weekend get-aways, I invested in my business. Then, I decided to add another branch to the brand, one that was just as sought-after, if not more, than yoga. My new venture still focused on getting and staying healthy, while supplementing the overall brand. So, I am excited to still be in business! I love yoga, and regardless of the circumstances, be it distance, time, or Covid-19 restrictions, I still want to make it available to anyone that wants it! Expanding my business to include body shaping, and more recently, a boutique, has been a blessing. c. Nothing about having your own business is easy, but it is worth it. Knowing that your hard work helps others live a more healthy lifestyle, and makes them feel more comfortable with their own bodies, inside and out, makes me smile.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well honestly, I don’t get out as much as I use to. Building a brand that will last takes time. Still, a weekend on the town with my girls in Atlanta would start with a delicious meal at 55th and Park, followed by some bowling! We would probably finish off the evening with a stay at the W Hotel on 14th Street. The next day would include brunch at Sweet Auburn Seafood, and great conversation and drinks at Rose Bar or Fellowship.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I absolutely love my family for always supporting me through my many endeavors. When you are starting a business, the days are long. There are no breaks and very little pay. A lot of people don’t see or understand your dream. For that friend, and myself, finding our paths was our inspiration. I learned that it is okay to talk about yourself and your accomplishments. Market yourself! You are your greatest cheerleader! I was inspired by a book entitled, “Ego is the New Enemy”. Many times you can get lost in your own thoughts of self-doubt and block your own blessings! Learning to write down goals and create a plan is something that I had to actually sit and meditate on. I am naturally shy, but when you have a business, you have to be open, honest, ready to communicate, and meet no strangers!