We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jenna Carlson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jenna below.
Jenna, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
This was very challenging for me. When I started making candles it was for my personal use. My husband and I did it together as a hobby to have cleaner burning candles. When I started working solo and turning into a business I struggled with putting myself out there and thinking I could actual make a product people would want to buy. Thankfully I have very supportive family. They helped my tremendously. I was also fortunate enough to participate in a business course through Eforall. That was truly amazing. I got to meet and work with other small businesses owners who helped build my confidence.
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?
On top of being a candle maker I’m a mom of 4! When I first started making candles my daughter who is now 4 was about a year old. I had decided when she was born that I was going to leave my job at the bank and stay home with her. Candle making has been great because I’ve been able to be home for her and also around for my boys whenever they have a game or are sick. I don’t miss anything which I’m super grateful for. I never considered myself an artist person by any means. Even when I started candle making I still didn’t to be honest. It wasn’t until about a year in and saw some of the candles I had created that I realized I did have a bit of an artistic side to me!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I would have to say my biggest advice would be to just start. If you have a dream try it. What’s the worst that will happen? You won’t make it? Maybe that will help push you into a different direction. A direction that will be even better than your original. Put yourself out there. It’s scary. Really scary, but so worth it! I would have to say working many years in customer service jobs helped me with that. I enjoy working with the public which I think always helps.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents believed in me. They pushed me when I was unsure of myself and supported me every step of the way. I had a tendency to get an idea and then not follow through. They didn’t ever second guess my decision to start and persuade my business.
Also maybe to add to the three qualities that are important when starting a business I would like to add confidence, strength and determination. It’s truly challenging to start a business. You need the confidence to put yourself out there, the determination to push forward no matter what and the strength to pick your self up when things are less the ideal or challenging
Contact Info:
- Website: Berkshirecandleshop.com
- Instagram: Berkshirecandle
- Facebook: Berkshire Candle
