For the latest in our series of editorials focusing on Irish Women in Business, we’re talking to Erica Brennan from The Gym Howth.
Erica took the leap to start out on her own when she was just 19 years old. Five years later she runs a successful gym in Howth, has branched out to help others start their own paths as entrepreneurs, while still taking some solid words of wisdom from her mother.
Here, Erica talks about her own journey, staying inspired and keeping true to your own vision of business success.
What age were you when you decided to set out and start up your own gym? What was your main motivation?
I had just turned 19 when I started out on my own; running, classes, pilates courses and one-to-one personal training sessions. Two years on, aged 21, I went from being a sole trader to a Limited Company. That’s when I opened up “The Gym Howth”.
My own personal reasons lead me into the fitness world (I was grieving and exercise became my outlet). However, my main motivation for opening The Gym was that I wanted more. I wanted to have a team of like minded people working with me in a bigger and fully equipped gym. I believed that the type of gym I wanted to run would work in Howth, and there was only one way to find out if I was right.
What was your background before setting up The Gym Howth?
Before setting up the The Gym Howth, my background was in retail. While studying I worked for T.M Lewin and then Fran and Jane. I initially started out as a pilates instructor and then went into fitness instructing, personal training, exercise for the older adult and pre/post natal training.
As I was teaching my own classes, I continued studying Nutrition in the Irish Institute of Nutrition & Health. In the fitness industry, I believe that it’s vital to always be improving your knowledge; it’s what differs you from other trainers.
Was it difficult choosing staff?
Extremely. My own lack of experience wouldn’t have been a help in terms of employing people. There are a lot of qualified instructors out there and it has been tricky finding the right people. Thankfully now, I have an amazing group working with me. Megan, who is The Gym’s Manager, has truly been a god-send and Simon, Ciaran, Shane; Susie, Dan & Grainne are all a dream to work with. It makes such a massive difference if your team gets along and I’m so grateful that our team really does.
What has been your biggest barrier in starting out in business?
The biggest barrier for starting a business is cash flow. Like any small business, the worry is questioning whether there will be enough money coming in for all that has to go out?
The struggles are dealing with my own personal fears and worries and the uncertainty of creating something knowing that it’s all down to me!
What have you learned about yourself from starting out on your own?
I’ve learned so much!! I keep a “lesson learnt” journal as I try to not make the same mistake twice. The biggest thing I’ve learnt is to trust my decisions. Sometimes, my decisions work and sometimes they don’t. Either way, I trust them now as I know that at that time, it was the best decision I could have made. Hindsight is great, but there’s no point crying over spilt milk; is there?
What is the best thing about being your own boss?
Being in control. If I want to work harder, I will. If I need to take a breather, I can do that too. It’s taken me five years to reach this point and I can honestly say, it is worth it!
Have you had many mentors? What have been their greatest advice / words of guidance?
I have many mentors that I look up to and I read plenty of books to keep me focused. The greatest words of guidance I have received however, is much closer to home… “There are many ways to skin a cat!” This guidance came from…my Mother!! She has always taught me that there are plenty of ways to get around ideas, challenges and fears; you just have to find them!
What’s been your greatest moment since starting out in your company?
My greatest moment since starting out was when I received a phone call from a client complementing the gym. She told me how safe she feels there, how positive the atmosphere is and how kind all the staff are.
I almost burst into tears!! I was so happy because that’s exactly how I want people to feel when training in The Gym.
How has your business plans changed since starting out on your own?
My business plan in terms of the functioning of The Gym hasn’t really changed. Obviously, it has veered slightly into different directions following the changes that happen in the fitness area. But all-in-all it hasn’t drastically differed. Recently we brought in a Hot Yoga Studio and that was always a dream of mine.
My 5 year plan was to develop a gym where people were comfortable, to have happy staff and to grow the business by implementing new ideas. We’re always trying to improve our standards and, in general just be better!
Last May we moved premises to a building that was designed to be a gym. That was a big part of my business plan and I am delighted to now have it!
Just over three years ago now my business in general took a massive leap. I started another business in Network Marketing whereby I coach people how to develop a business from home with no overheads. This opportunity fell onto my lap; I trusted my gut and I went with it. Today, I have two successful businesses that I run throughout the week.
What is the best part of your day?
Sitting down and having my morning coffee. I take those few moments for myself, just to embrace the day.
What advice would you give to somebody starting off?
Follow your gut, it’s always right.
It’s important to listen to those who have your best interests at heart. But, if you’re building a business, the business is you; be true to yourself.
