We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Barbara McInnis Hayman a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Barbara, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?
Travel tends to revive and re-energize me so I include travel as a major part of my self-care. When I get a chance to travel, I try to truly not think about work, I take time to meditate, relax and lots of deep breaths. If I’m not traveling my self care includes sitting outside for some quiet time to enjoy the view of the backyard lake and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am originally from Jamaica and moved to the United States to further my education. I received my degree in Communications from Villanova University, then worked in the pharmaceutical industry for a number of years before starting my interior design firm. My communications degree together with Professional Design School training from Decorating Den Interiors combine to enhance my natural design talents – all to the benefit of my amazing clients.
I enjoy reading, traveling and keeping up with all the current design and product trends: touring showrooms, factories, show houses and markets. When not busy helping clients beautify their surroundings, I believe in giving back to the community.
Prior to my recent move to Florida, I served on my church board and was involved in several church ministries as well as a volunteer at Habitat for Humanity.
I also offer a variety of complimentary design seminars to non-profit organizations, clubs and fundraising foundations.
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?
I think an attitude of gratitude- no matter what the circumstance- has played a huge part in my success. When I focus on gratitude at all times, I am able to shift my mindset and think positive thoughts which manifests positive outcomes. Shifting my mindset to gratitude and positivity also helped me to become more confident which led to better relationship with my client.
Thirdly, in my business I find that relationships are important. I had to learn to master good relationship skills and to be.a friend to my clients. I think my listening skills plays a vital role in relationship building.
If you are new in business, look for successful people to talk with and will coach you through the process or brainstorm with you through the challenges.
Secondly, never stop marketing. As a new designer, one of my mentors gave me this advice and I always remembered this. So I’m constantly looking at how I can market my business better
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
Eckhart Tolle- The Power of Now
This has been impactful in helping me to focus on the present, BEING and fully living in the present and worrying less about the unknown.
All we have is now, this moment. I strive to enjoy every minute I have in the present.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://barbara.decoratingden.com/portfolio/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarahayman_designs?igsh=MTcwczRuZTIzZnczNw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarbaraMcInnisHayman?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Jon Friedrich
