We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Gale Dashner Schadewald a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Gale with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I definitely received my work ethic from my parents. Growing up in Minnesota, the winters are long and cold. To heat our house, we had a wood burning furnace, no electric heat. So, that meant in the summertime a portion of summer break was spent in the woods helping Dad cut trees for firewood to last all winter long. Then, from fall through spring, every weekend without exception, we hauled wood into the house to last all week. We had other household chores and yard work that needed to be done on a daily basis as well.
My parents taught us kids that work is important and that dedication to your job is also a virtue. These experiences not only ingrained in me a strong work ethic but also a sense of resilience. No matter how tough the task, whether it was hauling wood in the freezing Minnesota winters or facing challenges in my business today, I’ve learned the value of persistence and following through.
This work ethic is something I bring into GaleForce Design Jewelry every day, ensuring that each piece is crafted with the same dedication and care that was instilled in me from a young age. However, I’ve also come to realize the importance of balancing hard work with self-care, something that has been crucial in my journey as a solopreneur.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At GaleForce Design Jewelry, I create nature-inspired, handcrafted copper jewelry that’s designed for those who appreciate organic, unique designs. My journey into jewelry making started with a deep love for art and nature, which has always been a part of me. I grew up in the woods of Minnesota, and that connection to the natural world has had a profound impact on my work. I take great pride in the fact that each piece I create is infused with that passion and connection.
One of the most exciting aspects of my work is the freedom to design pieces that feel authentic, not just to me, but to the people who wear them. My designs aren’t about following trends; they’re about capturing the beauty of nature in a way that feels both raw and refined. Whether it’s the delicate shape of a dragonfly wing or the earthy tones of jasper stones, each piece tells its own story.
What sets GaleForce Design Jewelry apart is the personal connection I bring to every design. I’m a solopreneur, so every piece that comes out of my studio has been crafted with my own two hands, from start to finish. This isn’t just a business for me; it’s an extension of who I am.
Looking ahead, I’m focused on continuing to expand my collection with pieces that resonate with my love for nature and the stories it tells. I’m also looking forward to connecting more deeply with my community, sharing not just my jewelry, but the inspiration and stories behind each design. Whether you’re new to GaleForce Design Jewelry or have been with me for a while, I’m excited to share what’s next on this journey.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I’d say the three most important things that really shaped my journey are my passion for creativity, the resilience I developed early on, and my resourcefulness. My love for art and nature has always driven me to create pieces that are not just beautiful but also meaningful. Growing up, I learned the value of perseverance through the hard work my family did, which has helped me face the ups and downs of running a business. Being resourceful has also been crucial—whether it’s finding innovative solutions to design challenges or making the most of available tools and materials.
For those who are just starting out, I’d recommend focusing on a few key areas. First, embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Seek out new skills and knowledge that can help you improve and innovate. Second, don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks. Sometimes the best ideas come from stepping outside your comfort zone. Lastly, build a strong support network. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and friends who can offer guidance, feedback, and encouragement along the way. These steps will help you navigate your journey and keep moving forward with confidence.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I start by taking a step back and reassessing what needs to be done. I break things down into smaller tasks and prioritize them, which helps me focus on one thing at a time. I also make sure to take regular breaks and give myself some downtime—sometimes stepping away for a bit can really clear my mind and reduce stress.
I’ve learned not to be too hard on myself. If I don’t get everything done that I wanted to today, it’s okay. I don’t need to burn the midnight oil; it can wait until tomorrow. Prioritizing self-care is crucial, and I’ve found that being kind to myself and recognizing that it’s okay to leave some things for the next day helps keep my stress levels in check.
And when I’m really struggling, I reach out to someone I trust. Talking it out with a friend or family member can offer a new perspective and lighten the load.
Sometimes, just taking these steps can make a big difference. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you and remembering that it’s perfectly okay to take things one day at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gfdjewelry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galeforcedesign
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaleForceDesign
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gale-dashner-schadewald-7383aa20/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DCzmApSvgwV2fMkvlgMEA/videos
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