We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jordan Goodman a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jordan, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I can’t say that I’ve ever “overcome” imposter syndrome; it’s an on-going journey that I am continuing to work through.
Starting my business, Sniff Slut Candle, has taught me so many things, one of which is that things do not always go as planned, and that I do, in fact, not know everything. When I feel like I don’t belong, or that other people are doing better than me, or having more growth than I am, or whatever the scenario may be, I always try to reflect on why I am comparing myself to anyone else in the first place.
One of the biggest lessons that my business has allowed me to learn is that there is no other Jordan Goodman. I am unapologetically myself, and my goal with Sniff Slut has always been to have a creative outlet where I can be bold, and loud, and silly, and raunchy, and really connect with others to celebrate our own uniqueness and individuality.
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 Jordan Goodman and I am the owner of Sniff Slut Candle.
I started making candles as a pandemic hobby in 2020. I have always been an anxious person and candle making was a great distraction that kept me busy during such a weird time in the world.
After getting laid off from my career of almost a decade in 2021, I began taking candle making more seriously and started to develop a clear vision for how I wanted my brand to be perceived and what I wanted my products to stand for.
With so much heaviness happening all around, I really wanted Sniff Slut to be an outlet for myself and my customers. I wanted people to laugh when they read the candle names, and I wanted my scents to trigger memories and feelings for them. I wanted to remind people to live loudly and never apologize for being who they are.
Over the years, I can confidently say I have accomplished that.
I have made such beautiful connections with so many lovely humans. I have collaborated with so many talented artists and fellow small business owners who inspire me greatly. I have learned so much about myself, my dedication, my resilience, my passion, and my heart along the way too.
I hope that every time you light your Sniff Slut Candle, that you are reminded that there is no one else in this world like you, and you belong here, and you are loved. Live how you want, love who you want, and don’t let anyone dim your flame.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Initiative, while not always easy, was necessary for my success. Even on days where it was a little harder to stay focused or get motivated. The smallest amount of initiative can get you far. If I didn’t research, test new products, network with other small businesses, or put myself out there even when I was uncomfortable, I would not have gotten to where I am now. Even if you take initiative to do just one small thing each day, you are progressing. Give yourself grace but hold yourself accountable.
Speaking of that, grace. You will mess up. Sometimes it feels debilitating and like you’ll never come back from the set backs, but each road bump is a lesson. Give yourself permission to feel your feelings and get upset, but don’t let it hold you back. Every challenge you’ve ever had, you’ve got through, and you will continue to do so. Be kind to yourself.
Lastly, surround yourself with other creatives who inspire you. Networking with other small business owners will help you tremendously in so many ways. Use their guidance and knowledge as motivation when it comes to your own business and do the same for others around you.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
As mentioned previously, I am naturally an anxious person and I get overwhelmed pretty easily.
Owning your own business can really consume you. Especially for me, I love my brand and I love my products so much, that I actually enjoy working and want to be doing something productive for my company almost at all times. Regardless of it being my own business though, it is essential to take mental health breaks and have a work/life balance.
It’s important to recognize when you’re starting to feel overwhelmed and not suppress those feelings. Instead, allow yourself to feel them, and then when you’re ready, redirect that energy into something else.
Outside of candle making, I enjoy working out and will go to the gym or go for a walk when I need to release some energy.
I also enjoy traveling and going to concerts, so I always try to have something booked on my schedule to look forward too, even if it’s a few months away.
Whether its a hike outside or a big trip planned, my advice would be to have other outlets and hobbies outside of your company that you can invest some of your time in to.
Contact Info:
- Website:sniffslut.com
- Instagram: @sniffslutcandle
Image Credits
Lauren Russell Hannah Edmondson
