Farah Idris talks to us about her hypnotherapy business, Headspace Hypno.
How would you describe your business in one sentence?
Empowering clients to unlock their fullest potential and lead their most fulfilling lives through transformative hypnotherapy.
When did you launch and who is behind it?
In 2016 I embarked on this thrilling adventure - dedicated to transforming lives through the art and power of hypnotherapy.
When did your lightbulb moment happen?
In the wake of losing my wonderful Dad, I sought the guidance of a hypnotherapist to help me navigate the overwhelming waves of loss and grief. During that transformative session, everything changed; my mindset shifted dramatically, and I experienced a powerful epiphany: I wanted to become a hypnotherapist myself.
This lightbulb moment ignited a profound desire within me to transform lives and empower others.
What did you do prior to starting your business?
Before embarking on my hypnotherapy journey, I held a prestigious and secure position as a Contracts Manager for a private aircraft company, where I leased jets to celebrities and VIPs. Plus, I was fortunate enough to travel the world in luxury. While this role was undoubtedly enviable and glamorous, I often felt a profound yearning for something more fulfilling - a career that would allow me to truly make a difference in the lives of others.
What would you say were three of the most challenging aspects of setting up the business?
Generating leads - attracting clients in a competitive market required me to embrace creative strategies and demonstrate unwavering persistence. It became a journey of continuous learning as I explored effective marketing techniques and shared my mission with friends, family and my community. This connection helped me reach those who could genuinely benefit from hypnotherapy, ultimately leading to a steady flow of bookings and countless success stories.
Building trust and confidence - gaining the trust of my clients was imperative. I had to effectively prove my expertise, the value of hypnotherapy by addressing scepticism and ensuring potential clients felt safe and supported. This involved effectively communicating the transformative power of hypnotherapy while overcoming common misconceptions and hesitations.
Believing in myself! - one of the greatest challenges was building trust in my ability to thrive as a hypnotherapist. I needed to conquer my own self-doubt, whilst keeping confidence in my skills and dedication to my vision of delivering positive change for others.
The smartest career decision you made…
Fearlessly resigned from my job at the time and embarked on an extraordinarily fulfilling path to become a qualified Rapid Transformational Hypnotherapist. My job now fills my life with joy and purpose!
The most difficult lesson you learnt…
Setting clear expectations for clients is essential. Hypnotherapy is a powerful form of healing, but not every session will result in immediate transformation. Building a strong connection and trust with my clients is crucial.
The best career advice you received…
“Never stop learning”—a nugget of wisdom which resonates deeply for me! My passion for learning keeps me on my toes and fuels my journey of growth, like a toddler on a sugar high! I dive into self-development every day. I am thrilled to have earned the title of Advanced Clinical Rapid Transformational Hypnotherapist!
What type of support have you received since starting your business?
Since I began my solopreneur business, I am profoundly grateful for the mentors and entrepreneurs who have generously shared their insights and experiences with me, as well as my fellow professionals in the wellbeing industry who have created opportunities for collaboration.
What type of support (if any) have you received from the council in relation to your business?
I had the pleasure of meeting Helen Roberts from Richmond Council’s Zenith Enterprise programme. She is a multi-award-winning business strategist with a focus on fast growth for SMEs, which highlights her impressive capabilities. In a remarkably brief time, Helen offered exceptional assistance, providing invaluable knowledge, expertise and support. Her passion for empowering individuals to achieve their full potential while pursuing their passions is truly inspiring. Helen genuinely cares about helping others succeed and her commitment is clear. This is a greatly beneficial initiative by the council.
What do you think residents can do to support your local business?
- Host informational sessions - where hypnotherapists explain their services and benefits, helping to demystify hypnotherapy
- Create referral networks and support local hypnotherapists practices
- Share experiences - encourage individuals to share testimonials and others to do the same
- Encourage workplace wellness - advocate for businesses to include hypnotherapy in their employee wellness programs
If you had the opportunity to do it all again, what would you do differently?
Nothing! Seriously. Every experience and decision have shaped my journey and led me to where I am today. I embrace every lesson learned and every moment that has contributed to my growth. The path I have taken has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am very grateful. Besides, if I changed anything, I might end up as a professional cheese taster, and let us be honest—I’d probably eat all the evidence.
Top three tips you to aspiring entrepreneurs/launching a business.
- Understand/know your customers - take the time to genuinely get to know who your customers are by researching their needs, preferences and challenges. Listen to their concerns and think about how your product or service can truly help them. When you have a deep understanding of your customer and connect with a diverse community you will be able to tailor your service effectively. This knowledge will not only help you stand out but also give you a competitive edge in your industry.
- Build a strong network - surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals who can provide guidance, mentorship and encouragement. Connecting with like-minded people can open doors to valuable opportunities and resources. Attend industry events and join entrepreneurial groups to foster meaningful relationships. Share your journey, seek advice when needed and celebrate your successes together. Remember, you are not alone on this path—having a strong network can make a significant difference.
- Embrace failure and learn - setbacks are a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey, so do not fear them. Instead, see them as valuable opportunities for growth and learning. When challenges arise, take the time to reflect on what went wrong, adjust your approach and keep moving forward. Be kind to yourself during these tough moments and use those experiences to build resilience and adaptability—qualities that are essential for success in entrepreneurship. Lastly, every great business begins with a vision and the courage to take that first step! Starting a business is a courageous adventure and with each step you take, you're moving closer to your dreams. Trust in yourself and embrace this exciting journey with kindness and positivity. You’ve got this!
Finish this sentence: I like being based in Richmond because…
…the peaceful ambiance and rich cultural heritage beautifully nurture and promote well-being. The charming riverside and lush green spaces create a tranquil sanctuary for healing.
I am also an ultra-marathon runner and extreme adventurer who thrives on the great outdoors! You will often catch me racing through the breathtaking trails of Richmond Park on Sunday mornings, soaking in the fresh air and the beauty of nature. Furthermore, I am an enthusiastic gardener who delights in wandering through Kew Gardens, marvelling at the vibrant blooms that dazzle with each season.
And can anyone resist the delectable ice creams and fabulous restaurants that make Richmond a foodie’s paradise?
Unwinding by the Thames, soaking up those stunning sunsets that transform the sky into a masterpiece — I feel immensely lucky and thankful to be a Richmond resident and call this place home!
How can people find you?
- Website: Headspace Hypno
- Insta: @headspacehypno
- LinkedIn: Farah Idris