We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Heather Steele a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Heather, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I would have to say that its been a life time of work, in building my confidence and self esteem. Growing up I was always smaller than the other children. I started school a year earlier than most and always felt that I had to work harder at everything I did. My mom was someone that didn’t concern herself about what others thought of her and in many ways I think she instilled that in me. Living on property as a child taught me work ethic and perseverance, it was a hardscrabble existence. I have had to let go of fear and embrace what I know is possible. I am always pushing myself to become more and to keep moving forward. I have taught my children (now adults) that they can do what ever they put their heart and soul in to and nothing is beyond reach. I’m thankful for all of the life lessons I learned in my childhood because it has shaped me into the person that I am today. When I’m faced with a new challenge, I know God is with me and there is no such thing as failure.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m an Seattle, Washington artist that has relocated to the Dallas Fort Worth area. I have always had a passion to create since I was a little girl. My mom was an amazing artist and my dad also painted but is a builder. He built our “Earth Home” and is one of those guys who could build a shopping mall out of tooth picks. I have a background in nursing but pursued elementary education. I have owned several childcare centers and in-home daycares. I started selling art a few years back in order to help my son pay for his living expenses in downtown Seattle, while under going Chemotherapy. This opened up the opportunity for us to do art shows together. He is an amazing Fine Jewelry designer off of Bainbridge Island and has his own store www.onandonfinejewelry.com I started selling my art to help my son and I have continued that mission. I have a burning passion to help the causes that are dear to my heart. I have worked with several charities such as ” Saving Hope Rescue” which helps homeless dogs and animals in need in the DFW area. I have lent my talents to ” Texas Campfire First” which helps children attend camp that may not otherwise be able to afford it. I have been the featured artist at the “Jewels Charity Ball” which proceeds go to help children and their families afford medical care at Cooks Children Hospital” in Fort Worth and I’m donating some art pieces to the upcoming “The Big Good” which helps with the Homeless in Fort Worth area. I have an online gallery (www.hrsteelefineartgallery.com) and I’m in several art galleries and will be featured in an upcoming book ” Texas Art Connection” ( order on Amazon and soon in Barnes and Noble) Presented by The Eyes Of Texas Fine Art Gallery. Also stay tuned for upcoming radio interviews. I’m passionate about creating pieces of art that speak to my soul. I have pieces to choose from or work with clients on a commission basis as well. Clients can view my gallery to order and get connected on my Instagram.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Know who you are and stay true to yourself, would be the first bit of advice that I would give. Have a firm grasp on where your roots are, stand strong and keep your goals in mind. Know your character and what you represent and don’t let anyone take your “light”, Keep shining!
Perseverance, Perseverance, Perseverance!!! On your journey you will have those that say “its just a dream”, they will tell you to “give up” or say only negative things. Don’t listen! Be open to constructive criticism but don’t take on other peoples negative energy. Don’t let anyone drain your tank. Instead gravitate to those that give you good food and fill your tank. These will be the people that stick by your side and will be loyal to you. Law of Attraction: send good energy out to the universe and good energy will be attracted to you. Things aren’t always easy, if it doesn’t work the 1st,2nd,3rd time, keep on going. “Don’t give up” There is no such thing as” Failure’, remove that from your thought process.
Love yourself and Celebrate your achievements! I have been guilty of not doing this, and its so important to do so. Being a creator or someone who is just driven, I can find it hard to celebrate when the time comes. It’s so easy to get sucked back in to your next creation or next phase. Both of my amazing children are driven and are extremely hard workers, and they get caught up into the next thing and forget to give praise and celebrate their accomplishment, big or small. Give that pat on your back!
Lastly never give up, stay consistent and give yourself Grace.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
I have been blessed with so many influential people in my life. My family has no doubt been my rock! I couldn’t do anything if it weren’t for my savior Jesus. Everything is possible with God! I have been so blessed meeting so many wonderful people but would like to highlight two. Kari Breen at” Pat and Marty Frame Shoppe and Gallery” has been a God send! Over the time that I’ve been here, I have benefitted from her undying support, she has helped and cheered on all of us artists featured in her gallery! She is truly an amazing woman and I’m completely inspired by her! All are my adopted family. The next person would be my good friend Sheri Lowry at Perfectly Automated at https://perfectlyautomated.com 877-499-1567. She specializes in helping businesses strategize and streamline their efforts to save money. Sheri has been invaluable as a friend and mentor and has helped me in a multitude of ways, I am truly appreciative of her friendship, advice and services. Thank you to both of you and thank you for helping others!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hrsteelefineartgallery.com
- Instagram: heatherrsteeleart
- Facebook: heatherrsteeleart
- Other: [email protected]
