We recently connected with Elle Liu and have shared our conversation below.
Elle, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
As a minority AAPI and woman founder in the entreprenurship space, being the only one in the room who looks like me has presented both challenges and opportunities. Embracing my uniqueness has been crucial in these situations, recognizing the value that my diverse perspective and experiences bring to the table. Confidence in my expertise and the foundation of my company has helped me navigate discussions and decisions with self-assurance.
Developing resilience has been essential in facing situations where I may feel like an outsider. I acknowledge that I may encounter biases or obstacles, but I use these experiences to fuel my determination to succeed and drive positive change. I’ve built my career in the corporate space, specifically tech, which mostly white and male dominated. Because of this, I’ve grown accustomed to being the only on that looks like me in the room. Building a strong support network of fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and like-minded individuals has been instrumental in overcoming the sense of isolation and gaining valuable guidance and encouragement.
In spaces where diversity is lacking, I find opportunities to educate others about my background and experiences, advocating for diversity and inclusion. Leveraging my differences as strengths, I emphasize the unique perspectives that my identity as a woman and AAPI founder bring, enabling me to connect with a diverse audience and cater to their specific needs.
I foster open communication and authenticity in my interactions, breaking down barriers and building trust with others in the room. By leading by example, I aim to inspire other underrepresented individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and show that success is attainable in any industry.
I lean on social media to connect with other people who are similar to be, whether that is being of the same background or being in a similar industry. I’ve built a really great support group via social media of other founders who are similar minded. I like share my story where I can, and through that, I’ve met a lot of positive feedback from people who identity with me and my story.
Above all, I celebrate my successes, both big and small. Acknowledging the progress I’ve made as a minority founder motivates me to continue pushing forward with confidence. Being the only one in the room has provided me with a chance to make a significant impact and pave the way for more diversity and inclusion in the sustainability space. By staying true to myself, remaining focused on my mission, and leveraging my unique perspective, I have learned to be effective and successful in any room I enter.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Meet Elle Liu, the visionary founder of Eucalypso, a pioneering home brand that disrupts the sleep space with sustainably made bedding made from eucalyptus derived TENCEL. Driven by a desire to create environmentally conscious bedding that addresses sleep issues like night sweats and skin breakouts, Elle embarked on a transformative journey to find the perfect alternative. After a year of global exploration and research, she discovered the remarkable TENCEL eucalyptus fibers, leading her to establish Eucalypso and craft luxuriously silky, cooling, and eco-friendly bedding. As a woman and AAPI founder, Elle’s dedication to sustainability and leadership in the industry sets her apart, inspiring positive change in the way we rest and care for the planet. Experience the future of sleep with Elle Liu and Eucalypso, where sustainable luxury and exceptional comfort intertwine, making dreams a reality.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as most impactful:
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks has been crucial in my entrepreneurial journey. There were times when I faced obstacles and doubts, but staying resilient helped me persevere and continue pushing forward. To develop resilience, early-stage entrepreneurs should embrace failures as learning opportunities, maintain a positive mindset, and seek support from mentors or fellow founders who can offer guidance and encouragement.
Adaptability: The business landscape can be unpredictable, and being adaptable is vital for success. I found that being open to change, embracing new ideas, and staying agile in decision-making allowed me to navigate through various situations effectively. Aspiring entrepreneurs should continuously seek to learn and stay informed about industry trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies. Being adaptable helps identify opportunities and allows you to pivot your business strategy when necessary.
Sustainable Practices and Knowledge: Sustainability has been at the core of my business, driving both my passion and success. Understanding sustainable practices, eco-friendly materials, and their impact on the environment has been instrumental in shaping Eucalypso’s values and offerings. Early-stage founders interested in sustainability should invest time in researching and understanding eco-friendly alternatives, developing relationships with suppliers committed to sustainable practices, and integrating environmentally conscious solutions into their products or services.
For those starting their entrepreneurial journey, my advice would be:
Don’t fear failure: Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Every setback is a chance to gain valuable insights and improve your business.
Seek mentorship and networking: Connect with experienced entrepreneurs or mentors who can provide guidance and support. Networking within your industry can open doors to valuable partnerships and collaborations.
Stay passionate and committed: Building a successful business requires dedication and perseverance. Stay passionate about your vision and remain committed to your mission, even during challenging times.
Stay agile and adaptable: Be open to feedback and willing to adjust your approach as needed. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances can be a significant advantage in a dynamic business landscape.
Remember, entrepreneurship is a journey of continuous learning and growth. Embrace the challenges, seize opportunities, and let your passion guide you to build a meaningful and impactful venture.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a moment to pause and focus on my breathing, which helps calm my nerves and bring clarity to my thoughts. Prioritizing tasks is crucial, so I create a to-do list and identify the most important and time-sensitive items. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps makes them less daunting and more achievable. Additionally, I’m not afraid to delegate tasks or seek help from team members when needed. Sharing the workload lightens the burden and allows me to focus on more critical aspects. Lastly, setting boundaries for my work and personal life is vital to prevent overcommitting and burning out. Creating space for relaxation and self-care helps me maintain overall well-being and balance amidst challenging situations.
Contact Info:
- Website: eucalypsohome.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/eucalypsohome
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenyuliu/
