Meet Diane Pascual

 

We recently connected with Diane Pascual and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Diane , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

Overcoming imposter syndrome was a gradual journey for me, rooted in embracing my unique background and experiences. Growing up as a Filipino American in San Diego, I often felt the pressure to fit into multiple worlds—balancing the expectations of my heritage with the norms of American society. This sense of duality followed me into my professional life, especially as I navigated the challenges of entering the design industry with a non-traditional path. As a young parent and someone who took a few detours before finding my passion for graphic design, I often questioned whether I belonged in the creative spaces I worked in. However, I began to realize that my diverse experiences, from my cultural background to my early struggles and successes, were not shortcomings but strengths. By reframing my journey as a source of resilience and creativity, I started to see my unique perspective as an asset rather than a limitation.

This shift in mindset allowed me to build confidence and take ownership of my achievements. Instead of comparing myself to others with more linear paths, I focused on the skills and insights I gained through my own experiences. Whether it was my ability to connect with different audiences or my knack for problem-solving in complex situations, I began to trust that my contributions were valuable. Seeking out supportive mentors, continually honing my craft, and staying true to my authentic self were key in overcoming imposter syndrome. I learned that my worth isn’t determined by fitting a specific mold, but by the impact I make through my work and the connections I build along the way.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am Diane Pascual, the founder of The Gypsy Goddess, a brand that embodies the spirit of creative freedom and entrepreneurship. My journey began as a freelance designer, working with renowned companies like Skechers, Hasbro Studios, and Salesforce. Despite these successes, I felt a deep desire to create something of my own, which led me to explore the world of digital product creation. In 2016, I launched The Gypsy Goddess, starting with digital tie-dye Photoshop brushes that have since evolved into a thriving collection of over 10 digital products, including Procreate brush sets.

What excites me most about The Gypsy Goddess is the opportunity to empower fellow creatives by providing them with innovative digital design tools. My products are not just about aesthetics; they are designed to streamline the creative process, allowing artists to focus on what they do best—creating. Beyond digital products, I’ve also ventured into education, offering courses tailored to surface designers and illustrators, helping them master advanced Photoshop techniques. As we continue to grow, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of an advanced Photoshop course specifically for pattern designers, illustrators, and painters, which will expand their creative possibilities and open new avenues for licensing and selling their work. The Gypsy Goddess is more than just a business; it’s a community where creativity and entrepreneurship converge, and I’m dedicated to inspiring others to pursue their passions and achieve their creative goals.

Check out my courses: https://shop.thegypsygoddess.com/

Join My Free Community Group:
https://community.thegypsygoddess.com/communities/groups/the-gypsy-goddess-free-members/home?invite=66c671c84b35a8afec65a157

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?

Looking back, three qualities and skills that have been most impactful in my journey are curiosity, adaptability, and maintaining strong network connections. First, curiosity has been a driving force behind my success, especially in learning and mastering design software tools. I believe that staying curious fuels a hunger for knowledge, pushing you to explore and continuously improve your craft. This mindset has been instrumental in helping me stay ahead of trends and embrace new techniques, which has been crucial in the ever-evolving world of digital design.

Second, adaptability has played a vital role in my ability to navigate the shifting landscape of the creative industry. Whether it’s learning new tools or adjusting to the demands of different projects, being adaptable has allowed me to thrive in various environments and work with a diverse range of clients. Lastly, the importance of maintaining network connections cannot be overstated. Your network is often your lifeline to new opportunities, whether it’s a referral to a new client or a recommendation for a job. I’ve leaned heavily on past colleagues who know my work ethic and can vouch for me, which has opened doors I wouldn’t have been able to access on my own.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to be patient with yourself as you develop these skills. Learning design software and honing your craft takes time, but your curiosity will keep you motivated. Additionally, don’t neglect your traditional skills—these are just as important as your digital ones. The combination of both will set you apart in the industry. Finally, make an effort to build and maintain your network. Stay in touch with colleagues and mentors, as these connections can be invaluable resources throughout your career.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

One book that has profoundly influenced my personal and professional journey is *The Alchemist* by Paulo Coelho. The story of Santiago’s quest to discover his personal legend resonated deeply with me, particularly as I navigated the ups and downs of my creative career. Santiago’s journey taught me the importance of following your passion and listening to your heart, even when the path is uncertain or filled with challenges. This mirrors my own experiences, especially in the early days of founding The Gypsy Goddess, where embracing the unknown was key to unlocking new opportunities.

One of the most impactful lessons from *The Alchemist* is the idea that the universe conspires to help you achieve your dreams when you truly commit to them. This concept has been a guiding light for me, reminding me to trust in my journey and remain steadfast in pursuing my goals, no matter the obstacles. Another valuable nugget from the book is the emphasis on the importance of the journey itself rather than just the destination. This perspective has helped me find joy and growth in every step of my creative process, understanding that each challenge I overcome contributes to the fulfillment of my personal legend.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Diane Pascual – The Gypsy Goddess LLC

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