Joyvina Evans started her business, the Confidence Academy, as she was going through a difficult season of her life filled with pain. Read our interview with the lovely Joyvina below…

What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?

Pain. I went through a difficult season of my life. When I came out of that season, I realized I didn’t go through it for myself. I went through it to help others. I have a passion for helping teens and women understand the importance of confidence. All of us will have difficult situations happen to us, however our response to those situations is what’s important. We all have a story.

Tell us about your business.

Confidence Academy is designed to cultivate confidence, courage, character, and produce change. This is done through workshops, virtual boot camps, mentorship, and apparel. We also have a book club that meets monthly. The goal is to assess our life, relationships, career, and goals and make sure we are living confidently and boldly. There is also a need to boost self-esteem and self-worth, understanding all of us have a purpose.

What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?

I immediately purchased the website domains and obtain my LLC.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?

Social media is a great resource to raise awareness. I’ve also served as a sponsor at a few events and sent company information.

What have been your biggest challenges so far?

I still work full-time, therefore I would say carving out the time to devote to Confidence Academy can be a challenge.

How did you overcome these challenges?

I’ve created a time-management plan. This includes days/times to relax and refuel.

How do you keep motivated through difficult times?

My faith keeps my motivated. I also have a great support system of family and friends. The members of Confident Conversations Book Club are awesome. We encourage each other, pray for each other, and laugh with each other.

How did you distinguish yourself from your competitors?

Being myself. I think one of the best things we can do is be our authentic selves.

What is the best advice you have received recently?

Relax.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?

I would give other entrepreneurs the same advice I was given: relax. We have to make sure we take time for ourselves. We are no good to our business or anyone else if we are stressed, depressed, frustrated, or sick. This does not mean to take a vacation once a month. However, it does mean to take some time to do what you enjoy doing.

What is your favorite business tool or resource?

Honestly, I don’t really have one. I research tools or resources as they are needed or I ask for help.

What social media outlets do you use? List them below.

Instagram @iamdrjoy
Periscope @iamdrjoy
Facebook @iamdrjoy
Twitter @iam_drjoy
Website www.confidenceacademy.info

What is a good article or book you have read recently?

I don’t read a lot of business books. The books that I tend to read are inspirational and encouraging. The book I’m currently reading is called “Reset Your Life” by Bishop Joseph Walker.

What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with? 

Within the next few months, I will start looking for an intern and potentially an assistant.

What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?

My goals are to expand my team and expand the amount of products and services that are offered.