Goals are the fuel of life. They provide motivation to continually move forward and strive to reach further. For years, I held the dream of “retiring” from the corporate world by the time I turned 30 and building a business of my own.

Seizing Unexpected Opportunities

Recently married, I soon watched the scale tip upwards as I gained that “happy weight,”. As a result I started spending hours in the gym. Time that I would much rather spend with my husband and family.

When my husband’s job temporarily took us to Australia, I noticed people spent less and less time in the gym and more time enjoying life. Before long, I started practicing Hypoxi (a training concept to combine alternating high and low pressure with exercise to help target fat in those areas which just won’t budge) where I spent only an hour and half a week, but witnessed the best results of I’d ever experienced.

When I returned home to Texas, I knew I’d found an effective program that I didn’t want to give up. However, my search for a local Hypoxi studio came up empty. With so many others also striving for successful weight loss methods and healthier lifestyles, I recognized the perfect opportunity to introduce Americans to a new system while achieving my goal of becoming a business owner.

In 2010, with the unwavering support of my husband and the help of my mother, I left my position as a financial advisor at Wells Fargo and opened the doors to Hypoxi Houston, a targeted body shaping fitness studio.

Startup Tips for First-Time Entrepreneurs

Every day since then, as I watch men and women walk through the doors of my studio, I am constantly reminded of the importance of pursuing one’s goals. No price or salary can compete with the smiles and joy I see reflected in their expressions as they meet their health objectives, feeling happy about themselves and their bodies. I love being a part of my clients’ life-changing experiences.

For that reason, I want to share some tips I’ve found helpful along the way. Whether you are embarking on a business venture of your own, looking to increase the savings in your account, or trying to shed a few extra pounds, these tips will help you successfully achieve your goals.

1. Decide what you want.

   Everything in life takes time, work, and effort — including the good things. Make sure your goal is something you really, truly desire. Doing so doesn’t make it easy, it simply ensures you are striving toward something you are passionate about. Running my own business is challenging, but it is something I have dreamed about for years and that kept (and keeps) me going even on the hard days.

2. Be specific.

   Set clear goals. If you want to lose 10 pounds, say it. Are you looking to start a business? Decide on a timeline. For example: “By the time I’m 30” or “Within 5 years.” Don’t create vague goals such as lose “some” weight or own a business “someday.” Know exactly what you are aiming for and go for it!

3. Create a workable strategy.

   Once you’ve established your goal, it’s time to create a plan. How will you achieve your dream? What actions can you take towards fulfilling it? Look at this as your blueprint. It is the guide that will see you through to completion.

Caroline Marache is the founder of Hypoxi Houston, a high-tech fitness studio that focuses on targeted body shaping and cellulite. Hypoxi’s unique weight loss system combines vacuum treatment (like cupping), compression therapy and fat burning exercises to promote circulation in areas of the body that store fat.

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