Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Hughes.
Paula, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Directing Paths LLC started as a government consulting firm in the Summer of 2016. Well, that was my plan at least! I, with the help of three other friends, went after government contracts in hopes of being awarded this huge amazing contract, but that never happened. I remember being in my home in Hawaii at the time and thinking to myself, “do I want to do government consulting? Is this something that will fulfill me?” The answer I found out very quickly was NO! My full-time position at the time was counseling victims of domestic violence and preparing them for life after abuse and in most cases, divorce. While I found this position to be very fulfilling, I became fatigued with hearing so much trauma daily and at times, I took this trauma home with me. I started to wonder how beneficial it would be to provide services to employers and employees to help alleviate the stress that so many employees deal with on a day to day basis in the workplace. Considering that so much time is spent at work, I felt it beneficial to create a safe space where you are spending the bulk of your time.
So, with a background in Public Health, I realized that I could kill two birds with one stone, so to speak by working for myself to provide coaching services to survivors of domestic violence and beyond. However, that alone wasn’t enough. I have always had a passion for fitness, education and helping people, so in the Fall of 2019, I decided to change my entire scope of services to encompass these things that I’m most passionate about. Hence, Directing Paths LLC became a full stop employee wellness program that offered group and individual coaching, onsite fitness classes, employee health challenges and lunchtime seminars. I wanted each service to also serve as a stand-alone package to meet the needs of the company or organization as necessary. The cool part about my company is I am also a mobile Zumba instructor, so I provide a fun Zumba experience mostly inspired by Afrobeats and travel to festivals, parties, events you name it as a stand-alone package as well. My goal is to provide wellness holistically to promote healing mentally, physically and emotionally.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road at all and there are still many bumps in the road! I have been in Texas for about four months now, so I’m working to create a following here and get settled. The difficult part for me was the unpredictable nature of being a military spouse, but now that Houston, TX is my home, I’m excited to set root here and meet people and help as many people as I can! Currently, I’m focusing totally on my business, whereas in the past, I had a full-time job and worked on my business when I could. I decided when I moved here to take a leap of faith and believe in myself and so far, it has begun to pay off.
My advice to any woman who is starting out does not give up if what you are pursuing is something you are genuinely passionate about. The average business owner may change their model up to five times before their business brings in profit. Lastly, avoid naysayers at all costs! Even if it’s family or friends. This journey can be trying so you will need all the encouragement and support you can manage to reach your goal and surpass it.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Directing Paths – what should we know?
Directing Paths LLC is a certified Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB), Limited Liability Company (LLC) comprised of an owner and independent consultants who provide unique employee wellness programs. We strive to ensure employees are motivated to not only be successful but lead healthier lives and have the tools to make healthy decisions. We provide the tools to enhance mental and physical health, teaching people through small, daily steps necessary to lead a healthier lifestyle. Our platform provides comprehensive health and wellness programs to help employees reach their full potential with a minimal impact on resources.
My goal is to have a measurable impact on employee lifestyle habits, reducing the health risks that drive health care costs. While there are many employee wellness programs out there with way larger budgets and staff than I have, I’m happy to be able to allow a more individualized approach and me courage engagement at the higher level to help set an example for all participants. You do not have to be an employer to utilize my services. I also cater to groups and/or organizations who could benefit from my programs. All programs have been created in house and are customizable. My specialty is providing a healing environment where you can let loose, feel comfortable and begin the healing and transformation process. During my ten years in service, I have helped over 6K clients and had over 8K hours of direct support and this is what I consider to be my biggest accomplishment to date.
We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
I think the biggest barrier today is the belief that women in power are overly emotional or that they are unable to prioritize work and family. In actuality, why should we have to choose? Why can’t we have it all? I will even boldly say women can have it all and we have so many positive examples of women who have managed to do just that.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.directingpaths.com
- Phone: 281.721.9160
- Email: Paula.Hughes@DirectingPaths.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ej_zumba_412/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/rhythmandbeat
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