In case you missed it, I held a live session on starting your passion over the weekend. Many years ago, I wouldn’t have even thought I could become a mentor to aspiring businesswomen! Back then, I was a struggling single parent; all I wanted was to support my child and be a good product formulator, with enough income for my child’s future and to improve on my craft.
You might think at this point that single parenthood was my hindrance or “filter”. It’s not: it actually served as the trigger for me to raise the bar and do more. I was terrified, of course! But I also realized that there was nowhere else to go but up; I couldn’t risk NOT trying at all, because that would mean settling for mediocrity — and my child deserved more than that. I deserved more than that.
“Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do.
Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong.”
— Ella Fitzgerald
Love was my primary driving force; I loved my child fiercely and would do anything to ensure a bright future. And I didn’t want to let the fear of failing overtake that love.
Fast forward to 2020: I’m the work “mother” of over 200 employees at Ellana, and despite the economic fallout of the past few months hitting us and other smaller businesses hard, we continue to drive our people to chase their educational and economic aspirations.
It might seem like a strange time to pursue dreams and transformation, considering how much is up in the air for everyone in terms of work, income, and wellness. Nobody wants to be unsure, to risk too much in case things don’t pan out. But the new world calls for change, and this means breaking out of your comfort zone, thinking out of the box, and exploring things that you never thought possible!
For those who are still worried about taking that next step: what’s holding you back? I’d love to know what worries you and prevents you from pursuing your dreams — perhaps we can have a conversation about it soon!
Love,
Theresa Carbonel-Buenaflor
Founder, Ellana Mineral Cosmetics