We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nicqueva Haughton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Nicqueva, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I believe that confidence and self-esteem are muscles that have to be continuously exercised in order to remain strengthened. We are human beings and through each phase of life, we have to develop the proper amount of esteem and confidence in order to conquer what we are facing. I think coming to the realization, as an adult, that it’s ok to be yourself, was very pivotal for me. I realized that growing up, the people who made fun of me or downplayed my ideas, weren’t the rule makers of life. So many people I know, were looking to fit into the mold that was created for us, and I somehow consistently went against the grain, I learned that I was much happier and content when I chose myself over people pleasing. Learning to be bold and express my standards, boundaries, and dislikes is where it started for me. I can love other people and respect them, but I don’t have to do the things they do or live how they want me to live. I can have enough faith, confidence and esteem within myself to know that I am enough. I am fearfully and wonderfully made, and God didn’t make any mistakes when he created me.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My favorite and most important roles are wife and mom. I have three beautiful children with my husband of fifteen years. I am excited that I am able to spend a lot of time building my brand. As a shoe designer, I really get to create shoe designs that are uniquely different from other brands. I create these items in very small quantities for customer exclusivity. I really enjoy seeing how satisfied my customers are when they are wearing a pair of Elsada Shoes.
Beyond shoe designing, what I have learned is that I am my brand. People initially will buy from you based on relationship. I realized that my presence in the business and everything I do, is going to be the most important thing. Things I love to do beyond designing is encouraging people, writing, public speaking, and singing. Most recently, I partnered with my husband to write a book entitled “The Marriage Cookbook.” We are so ecstatic about the release of this book. It is currently available for pre-order on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. I have also been invited to share a part of my health journey at the Endometriosis Foundation of America patient day. I can truly say that I feel like I am living my dreams. I took a step out on faith and quit my full-time job in order to focus on who I am purposed to be, and doors have been opening for me.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three things that are most impactful for my journey are: 1. Persistence – You can’t quit. You may need a break, you may feel like some days are more productive than others, but quitting isn’t an option. No matter what you do, keep moving forward. 2. Surround yourself with positive people – You have to make sure that you are feeding yourself with uplifting and positively progressive surroundings. The company you keep should be holding you accountable to reach your goals. 3. Prayer- This may sound foreign to some, but this is for sure what has kept me sane and focused. No matter what you believe in, I think it is important to pray and manifest what it is you want to see by connecting with your higher power. I believe in Jesus! I feel like my purpose has been made clear in my prayer time.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My amazing parents were the most present parents they could possibly be. With every imperfection and no matter what they were facing, they NEVER quit. They were committed to problem solving and moving forward. They made good times out of tough situations, and they never wallowed in pity or sorrow. I am such a strong person because of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopelsada.com
- Instagram: @nicqueva @shopelsada
Image Credits:
Ebony B. Photography TH5Media
