We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Janel A. Young. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Janel A. below.
Janel A., we are so happy that our community is going to have a chance to learn more about you, your story and hopefully even take in some of the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Let’s start with self-care – what do you do for self-care and has it had any impact on your effectiveness?
For me self-care is a lifestyle and it’s embedded in my daily routine. My self-care routine primarily falls into four categories: spiritual, mental, physical, and social. Daily scripture readings, journaling, moments of isolation, periods of detachment, and spending a few hours at the health club is how I invest in my spiritual, mental, and physically well-being. For social self-care, I enjoy kickbacks with my close family and friends, retreats, brunch, girls trips, and spending quality time with my husband and children.
Adopting this lifestyle has enhanced my quality of life tremendously. I am more focused on being present, and have more energy to achieve my personal and professional goals. There are times when I fall short in some areas of my self-care, but I’ve learned to give myself grace to remain consistent.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am the Co-Founder + CEO of SassiCat. SassiCat~ Unapologetically You is a trendy lifestyle boutique obsessed about empowering women to prioritize self-care, wellness & rest. Our brand is rooted in love with a twist of laughter and sarcasm. We offer many tools and resources to help our customers be more organized, and realigned with self and purpose. We offer affirmation cards, notebooks, dear self-cards, and soul-care journals. These resources pair well with our empowerment tees, loungewear and affirmation candles. For the fashionistas we have trendy items for leisure such as jewelry, sunglasses, weekender bags and totes.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the most impactful part of my journey has been showing up as the most authentic, genuine version of myself when making new connections in various social settings. Aligning and diversifying my network of friends, and social groups to amplify our brand is instrumental to our growth. Finding my community of Co-founders, CEOs and other amazing women in business has strengthened our support system, and increased our capacity. Through these networks, we’ve learned best practices and gained access to vital resources to help me to continue to develop as a Co-founder + CEO, in addition to access to funding opportunities, investors, legal and marketing support.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I force periods of isolation, find moments to be still, meditate and reset my current course of actions. I will incorporate moments of joy such as riding my bike, going for a walk, catch my favorite yoga class, listen to inspiring podcasts or soothing music. I’ve learned to adjust my schedule unapologetically to protect my mental and physical health. I’ve grown comfortable with declining event requests and invites that no longer serve me or my company by finding other ways to support.
Most importantly, asking for help, and delegating tasks is a great way to reduce stress and get ahead of the curve. I’m very fortunate to be in partnership with James, my husband and best friend. He leads most of our operational responsibilities for our business and is very involved. Having a good partner, trusted advisor or friend to lean on has helped me maintain a healthy relationship with our company.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopsassicat.com
- Instagram: @shopsassicat
- Facebook: @shopsassicat
Image Credits
Kiara Jackson
