Owning an optometry business is like mixing clinical know-how with a bit of entrepreneurial hustle. It's all about balancing patient care with running the show behind the scenes. In this blog post, we're so fortunate to speak with Alison Abdullah, who's not only the owner of her optometry practice Lens Avenue, but also another skincare business; where she shares her journey on what it's like to own and operate a practice, as well as challenges along the way.
Alison graduated from UNSW in 2017, and furthered her studies and experience in New York City for 4 years before setting back to Australia and opening Lens Avenue in 2021.
What made you want to own your own practice and how did you go starting up?
I've always had a passion for independent optometry, and coming back from the US, I was inspired to curate my own clinical and boutique optical space. I actually spent 2 weeks in hotel quarantine upon my return to Australia, and it was in that time that I liased with suppliers, spoke with my Australian mentors, and got the ball rolling on plans for Lens Avenue.
Should I take over an optometry business or start brand new?
That's a tough question! There are benefits to both paths. Obviously, taking over a business means you have established clientele, existing staff members who already understand the business, and there are definitely less hiccups to iron out. Alternatively, starting brand new means you get to establish your own reputation, build your clientele from scratch, and run things the way you want from the get go. I think it really depends on your personality and the type of business you're wanting to run!
You have also started another business that specializes in skin and eye care. How is your work life balance as the owner of multiple businesses?
Yes I have! Dermii is a fun little collaboration between myself and my business partner, Luke. Luke also runs multiple businesses, so having each other to bounce ideas off has definitely helped. With two relatively new businesses, they need a lot of TLC and time, but I am hoping as they grow I can learn to take a small step back and delegate a lot of the day-to-day tasks.
What was the biggest obstacle you encountered during your journey, and how did you overcome it?
There have been countless obstacles in my journey! I think the hardest part about a brand new business is establishing your own voice, and trying not to be swayed by what others in the industry are doing.
As an optometrist, was it hard learning the financial/business side to owning a practice? Is there any resources that you would recommend that might have helped you with this?
Oh - absolutely! I am still figuring things out, and constantly learning. Speaking with other practice owners and dispensers has definitely helped, and referring to Optometry Australia with any specific questions has always been my go to.
What advice would you like to give to all the YOs that are interested in opening their own business?
Go for it! It has its challenges but it can be so rewarding! If you're going down the independent path, make sure you go into the process well-informed and with a good plan of how you want your business to operate and appear to the public. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
What outlets do you turn to for stress relief when work becomes overwhelming?
I really enjoy my morning Pilates, and always make sure I get enough sleep - especially entering the busy Christmas months!
What part of owning an optometry practice brings you the most joy/satisfaction?
Being able to practice the way I want, and spending as much time with my patients as they need, is absolutely a highlight of owning my own practice. In just 3 years we have come to build a wonderful little community here - it's really a lovely place to work!
Thank you Alison for your insights!
