Have you discovered the power of essential oils yet? Aromatherapy is a gentle, non toxic healing modality. Using essential oils helps to bring balance and harmony to mind, body and spirit. Mum of four and certified aromatherapist Debra Duncan turned her passion for essential oils into a business – The Scentsible Life. She is extremely proud to be a dōTERRA wellness advocate. dōTERRA’s essential oils are the oils that she uses and recommends. We spoke to Debra to learn more about how she got started.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
I had always worked in the corporate world previously. After having my four children in five years I was adamant that I didn’t want to return to a job that I had no passion or love for. I really wanted to do something that set my soul on fire. Something that made me excited to start my day. Something that also allowed me to be at home with my children.
After experiencing the positive results of using essential oils for my family and starting my formal education in aromatherapy, I also decided I wanted to pursue an essential oils business. I had been using doTERRA essential oils for a while and was totally in love with their products. One of the things many people are not aware of is the humanitarian work doTERRA is involved in. I encourage everyone to read about doTERRA’s Healing Hands Projects. I felt totally aligned with this company so it just made total sense to me to do this as a business. I didn’t know what to expect but for the first time in a long time I felt very inspired and excited.
The Launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
The beauty of starting a doTERRA business is you really have everything available to you. The company provides all your business and training needs. My advice is to choose wisely when you enroll with a consultant. Make sure you feel comfortable and aligned with them and that they are willing to provide ongoing guidance and support with using your oils and possibly supporting you in business if you think that is something you may be interested in. I have been fortunate to have a wonderful leader and mentor and I strive hard to provide the same level of service to my team. Attending local and online business training really helps. It totally inspires you as you learn more about building your business.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
Reaching a leadership rank and being recognized for it at our annual members convention. Understanding that everyone moves forward at their own pace and not getting caught up in comparing myself to others (which can be easy to do). Knowing that with hard work, dedication and remaining passionate about serving others, I can continue to reach these milestones in my own time and own way of running business. It’s not a race! It’s about providing a service I feel good about and building and nurturing relationships.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
In the beginning it was really challenging. Only one of my kids was at school while three were still at home and I was also studying. Challenging but doable. The great thing about this business is the relaxed attitude and expectations. I would take my kids to my workshops. The other ladies attending would also bring their kids. Now I only have one at home during the day so it’s a lot easier. I usually hold classes and meetings with my members during the day while I do most of my online work at night after the kids have gone to bed. My husband is also a very hands-on dad. Having said that there are many single mums in this business absolutely smashing it! When I start to feel time challenged and overwhelmed I just have to remind myself that I am doing this to benefit my family and others.
