We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jacqueline Toscano. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with JACQUELINE below.
JACQUELINE, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
It took me a long time to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Growing up all I wanted to be was a scientist. I loved animals so much and wanted to study them. I went to college for evolutionary biology and graduated with a bachelors. However, shortly after I was diagnosed with a disability and could no longer pursue a career in science. I was really devastated so I turned to art as a form of therapy. I slowly began to fall in love with making jewelry and decided to turn it into a small business. From then on I knew that I wanted to focus all of my energy into art and I haven’t looked back.
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?
My name is Jacky. I am an ex evolutionary biologist and I make jewelry. I started out by making polymer clay jewelry and slowly transitioned to silver jewelry. I love making jewelry because it reminds me of the scientific processes I would implement in college. Making new pieces feels like working on an experiment. I am making something new and unique that first started out as an idea and I have to figure out how to bring it to life. I draw a lot of my inspiration from nature, sci fi, and science books. Anytime I’m working on a new piece I feel like a mad scientist trying to bring something unique to life.
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?
When I first started my brand I did not have a lot of money so I had to use the things that I had around me. In the beginning I think it is important to be resourceful and try to do things like repurposing old tools or buying used materials. Another thing that was really helpful was reaching out to people. It is so important to grow connections and make friends. If you are interested in having a store stock your products then reach out to them. I got a lot of my opportunities from reaching out to people and introducing myself. I have made so many good friends because of that.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed I try to back away from what I am doing and take some space from it. If I become overwhelmed while working on a piece I will step away from it and go on a walk or talk to someone. I think it is important to leave what you are doing and come back to when you feel less stressed. Having a fresh perspective when I’m back works wonders.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pogonacreations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pogonacreates
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