Meet Jae Spivey

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jae Spivey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jae, we can’t begin to explain how much we appreciate you sharing about your PPD experience, but we can say that so many in our community are suffering from or have suffered from postpartum issues including postpartum depression and so you sharing your story and how you overcame it might help someone who is going through it right now or in the future. What can you share with us about how you overcame PPD? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

I overcame postpartum depression by gradually reintroducing activities I enjoyed before having my baby. One of these activities was brand ambassador work. I carefully selected opportunities that I felt I could manage without becoming overwhelmed or anxious and worked at those events. Over time, I also started looking for job opportunities. While some positions didn’t align with my son’s schedule, this journey ultimately led me to pursue a full-time career as a hairstylist, which has been fulfilling and manageable alongside my responsibilities as a mother.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

During my early years, I discovered my passion for hairstyling, a fascination that led me to experiment and learn the art of haircare. However, as time progressed, I temporarily veered away from this path, compelled to explore diverse interests that captured my curiosity. This period of exploration allowed me to gain a broader perspective and acquire skills across various domains. Nevertheless, life has a way of guiding us back to our authentic passions.
Welcoming the journey of motherhood brought new clarity to my aspirations. It was then that I felt an irresistible pull to revisit my love for hair and all things natural hair care. This rekindled flame inspired me to pick up where I had left off, this time armed with a renewed zeal and a sense of purpose. As I delved into the world of natural hair care, I found my focus honing in on two specific areas: braiding and locs styles.
These intricate and beautiful techniques resonated deeply with me, driving me to further master and refine my skills. Embracing these methods allowed me to merge my creativity with my genuine dedication to promoting healthy, natural hair. Today, I stand as a testament to the power of embracing one’s journey and allowing passions to evolve over time. My story underscores the importance of following our heart’s desires and leveraging life’s experiences to shape our unique path.
With a heart set on natural hair care, a penchant for braiding and locs styles, and a commitment to nurturing hair’s inherent beauty, I am excited to continue this journey and offer my expertise to those who share my enthusiasm for authentic self-expression through hair.

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?

1. Education: Whether it’s through college, cosmetology school, or specialized classes, continuously enhancing your skills and staying current in your field is crucial. Being a dedicated student and never stopping your learning process is essential for long-term success.
2. Mentorship: Having a mentor to guide you through the nuances of the business, both inside and outside the salon, is invaluable. A mentor can provide insights on handling slow seasons, managing your finances, building a clientele base, especially when moving to a new city or state, and offer strategies to attract clients as a beginner and those who aren’t active on social media.
3. Practical Experience: Gaining hands-on experience and learning through real-world applications help in understanding and navigating the complexities of your profession. This practical knowledge complements formal education and mentorship, providing a comprehensive foundation for your career.

My number one advice would be to always remain self aware

Self awareness – Reflect on Your Strengths and Weaknesses:
• Regularly assess your skills and knowledge in hairstyling, business management, customer service, and other relevant areas. Identify where you excel and where you need improvement.
Seek Feedback:
• Ask for feedback from clients, employees, and peers. Use this feedback to gain insight into your performance and areas where you can improve.
Monitor Customer Reactions:
• Pay attention to clients’ feedback, both verbal and non-verbal. Note their satisfaction levels and any recurring issues or compliments.
Set Clear Goals:
• Establish clear, achievable business and personal development goals. Regularly review and adjust these goals based on your progress and feedback.
Stay Informed:
• Keep up with industry trends, new techniques, and products. This helps you stay relevant and informed about what clients might expect.
Practice Emotional Regulation:
• Manage stress and maintain a positive attitude. Handling difficult clients or business setbacks calmly can improve your decision-making and client relationships.
Maintain Work-Life Balance:
• Ensure you take time for self-care to avoid burnout. A healthy work-life balance can enhance your overall well-being and effectiveness in running your business.
Regular Self-Reflection:
• Set aside time regularly to reflect on your experiences, decisions, and interactions. Consider what went well and what could be improved.

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enhance your self-awareness and run your business more effectively and empathetically.

How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?

One particular challenge I am currently facing is overcoming anxiety when it comes to distributing business cards to potential clients. This anxiety often hinders my ability to make meaningful connections and effectively promote my services. I am working on strategies to build confidence and ease in these situations, such as practicing my pitch, engaging in stress-reducing activities, and gradually increasing my exposure to networking opportunities.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @tslha__
• Other: https://linktr.ee/TSLHA