We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bill D. Shin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Bill D., thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
To be honest, I find it hard to answer questions like this because I don’t really see myself as ‘dealing’ with criticism. If someone’s goal is just to criticize me to hurt my feelings, I don’t give them that power. Instead, I actually feel kind of sorry for them. I mean, what could be a bigger waste of time in life than trying to bring others down? It makes their life seem so empty, and honestly, I can’t let that affect me.
For people who are just generally negative, I figure it’s because their life experiences shaped them that way. It’s not about me, it’s about them. I might feel a little sad for them, but it doesn’t touch my goals or my passion.
So when people ask how I ‘persist’ or ‘push through’ criticism, my answer is simple: I don’t let it get to me in the first place. I just focus on what I need to do and keep moving forward. I don’t spend my time worrying about what people think. I’m too busy doing my thing.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am the sole owner of 028 Barbershop and 028 Barber School. Since 2018, I’ve been steadily expanding my business year after year. I like to think of myself as a sharp and strategic entrepreneur when it’s time to make business decisions, but also as a warm and approachable person who values human connections.
At 028, we pride ourselves on combining the classic elements of barbering with a sleek, modern touch. It’s this balance that defines our brand and drives us forward.
In October 2024, we opened 028 Barber School, which I truly believe will set a new standard for barber schools, not just in Washington State, but across the entire country. This isn’t just a school; it’s the future of barbering education, and I’m so excited to see the impact it will have on the industry.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
No matter what you do, I believe in the 10,000-hour rule. That’s the first thing. I was obsessed with barbering, constantly thinking about what people want, and sacrificing sleep to get better. With 10,000 hours of dedication, I believe you can master anything.
The second is having a business mindset. In emotional moments, I learned to flip a switch and think coldly and rationally about what’s best for the business. Sometimes you need to be calculated and cool, but at other times, empathy is what drives growth. It’s about knowing when to balance the two.
The third is being bold. Sometimes even to the point of being reckless. Opportunities don’t come to those who hesitate. I’m not saying you should recommend outrageous expansion, but if you have confidence, it’s important to push forward. When the timing is right and you’re fully prepared, you have to be brave and take that leap
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
This question really makes me reflect deeply. If I were to start from the beginning, it would trace back to my childhood, but to keep it brief, I’d say it really began in my teenage years.
When I was 17 and suddenly decided to quit school to learn barbering, spending over ten days away from home. When, at 23, a young kid barely finding his footing announced he wanted to open a barbershop. When I wasn’t even 30 and said I was going to start a barber school. And even now, in every moment, my parents have given me their unconditional love and unwavering belief in me.
Knowing that I am their pride and joy keeps me grounded and makes me think carefully about my actions. The knowledge that I have people who love me unconditionally and that I always have a home to return to has given me the strength to aim higher and jump farther.
If I had to narrow it down to one thing, it’s challenging, but this is my answer: their unconditional love, their unshakable faith in me, and their constant support—even now. That’s what has impacted me the most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://028barberschool.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/028barberschool/profilecard/?igsh=Z2l4ZGp3Mm5oMWNx
Image Credits
Dhanel.photo
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