We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexandra Preisz a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alexandra, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My earliest memories of being a little girl are being happy, silly and always optimistic. Growing up in a household where optimism was not just encouraged but celebrated, I learned early on the power of positivity and how it can really transform and shape the reality you choose to live and operate in.
I think both of my parents crafted a delicate balance between optimism and realism. They possessed an unwavering belief in the potential for good in every situation, but they were not blind to the challenges that life presented. Their optimism was tempered with a healthy dose of pragmatism which I always observed as a young child and was curious about.
From them, I learned that optimism is is about facing obstacles head-on with the unwavering conviction that better days lie ahead. I always try to see setbacks as opportunities for growth, even when it seems impossible at times.
I think in a world that can seem consumed by cynicism and despair, my innate ability to be optimistic keeps me excited for the future. For me it keeps life vibrant and reminds me to always keep hope in my heart. I don’t look at it as naivety, I really think it’s waking up every day making the conscious choice to focus on possibilities, rather than limitations and creating your life from a place of infinite gratitude.
Optimism is my compass and is what guides me through adversity with grace and gratitude. It’s a gift I’ve inherited from my parents and grandmother and that I carry with me wherever I go. As I navigate the uncertain terrain of the future and overthink most days, I do so with the unwavering belief that no matter what challenges may arise, optimism will always guide me to exactly where I am meant to be.
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?
Born right outside of Los Angeles between the mountains and the beach, Southern California’s vibrant tapestry of culture and beauty inspires my design aesthetic and when I am creating new jewelry pieces. I love the intricate dance of creation and connection and savor each step. From the inception of an idea to the final masterpiece. My exploration of fashion within styling, to the curation of my own jewelry brand Sofie & Celine, have been my canvases for developing my passion into tangible, wearable expressions of creativity.
Dance, music, art and photography all bring me so much joy. These outlets fuel my inspiration when I am in my creative element through movement, textures and form.
Exciting new things on the horizon for this season: my new Spring jewelry collection inspired by the vibrant hues of the season, is now available to shop on my website (www.sofieandceline.com). (I would be happy to give a promo code for your readers or subscribers for 20% !)
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
A Passion for Growth and Knowledge. Embracing a mindset of continuous growth and a thirst for knowledge has propelled me forward in both my personal and professional life. This passion has driven me to seek out new opportunities, explore different avenues of learning, and constantly challenge myself to improve. My advice for those starting their journey is to cultivate this passion by staying curious, being open to new experiences, and never settling for complacency. Read widely, pursue hobbies that intrigue you, and seek out mentors who can guide you along the way.
Being a Student to Life: Life is the greatest teacher, and approaching each experience with a student’s mindset has been invaluable to me personally. Whether it’s navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, or simply observing the world around me, I strive to put myself around people or environments that contribute to my growth. My advice for others is to embrace every experience as an opportunity to learn, to be present in the moment, and to reflect on the lessons that life presents. Keep a journal, engage in meaningful conversations, and embrace both successes and failures as opportunities for growth.
Support from Family and Friends: The unwavering support of my loved ones has been a cornerstone of my journey. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in me have given me the strength to overcome obstacles and pursue my dreams. For those just starting out, my advice is to cultivate strong relationships with your support network. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, who uplift and inspire you, and who will be there for you unconditionally, and to also reciprocate that support by being there for others in their journey as well.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth has been prioritizing myself. I’ve placed the needs and desires of others above my own, often at the expense of my own well-being and personal growth. This pattern of behavior definitely made it easy to distract myself, preventing me from fully realizing my potential and living life to the fullest.
Choosing to put myself first has been a transformative journey, one that has required courage, self-awareness, and a willingness to challenge deeply ingrained habits and beliefs. It’s meant learning to set boundaries, saying no when necessary, and honoring my own needs and aspirations without guilt or hesitation.
By showing up for myself with the same fierceness and dedication that I’ve always shown for others, I’ve discovered a newfound sense of empowerment and self-worth. I’ve learned to listen to my inner voice, to trust my instincts, and to pursue the things that bring me joy and fulfillment without apology.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sofieandceline.com
- Instagram: business: sofieandceline / personal: alexandrapreisz
