We were lucky to catch up with Paula Orezi recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Paula , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Teen Years:
During my teen years, I struggled like the typical teenager with self-identity and worth. I thought of myself as not being good enough to be someone important in life or offer anything valuable to others. I quickly started to doubt my existence in this world. My thinking had an impact on my decisions in life. I used to compare myself to others thinking that if I only had their gift, talent, and abilities, I could bring something to the table. I quickly learned that I was stuck with Me all my life and needed to be okay with that!
College/start of Corporate era:
During my years in college, I wanted to start my own business. I tried every business opportunity that came my way no matter the objectives. I had no stand in what I was aiming to represent in life and was lost! Then I started my life in Corporate America and became harder on myself because I felt so devalued and minimized. In every job, I felt intimidated to take on new projects, give presentations, or lead others. I kept allowing outside influences in the workplace to define who I was and what my abilities were. I did not want to be rejected so I would go with the flow. After several jobs and setbacks in business opportunities, I realized that I did not define my life’s mission. Therefore, I would accept anything that came my way instead of taking a closer look to see if it fits who I am and what I stand for. Going along with the flow was not what I wanted to stand for.
Aha Moment!
Then one day during my time at work, my thinking changed and I started to see myself as a person who can create change by simply being myself and being a change agent in everything I do. I can bring positive change to the world and get out of my comfort zone to help others have that defining moment as well! We are created for a purpose, for a time to be ourselves and contribute to this world using our gifts, talents, and abilities. So from that perspective, I created a simple T-shirt that stated, I am Good Enough! I developed it with the idea that sometimes staring at a T-shirt that has a statement is worth more than speaking it out loud. I used to be a shy person and now I have developed a confidence that allows me to use my talents to be expressive in creative ways. Then Paula O! Store was birthed out of frustration with how the world has cookie-cutter standards on who a person should be! The blog was created to offer a place of motivation, learning, and community. My WHY is to help others not feel outcast but to be themselves and let their talents display unashamed!
The Now:
Today, I feel like a people-connection machine. My energy and personality attract others, and I enjoy meeting new people. My friends often suggest that I become a motivational speaker because of my lively personality and the advice I give. This is a talent I stumbled upon when allowed to communicate with large groups of people.
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?
I am the driving force behind my brand called, PAULA O! STORE LLC, a merchandise collection that encourages people to be change agents and embrace their true selves without fear. I have a dedication to inspire positive change and win-win outcomes in people’s lives. My commitment to being a ‘Change Agent’ shapes everything I do, and this passion has earned a special recognition as one of the top 50 women leaders to look up to by Passion Vista Magazine.
My journey to self-discovery wasn’t always smooth. As a teenager, I grappled with self-identity and feelings of inadequacy. Comparing myself to others, I yearned for their gifts and talents, believing it would make me more valuable. However, I soon realized that I was unique and needed to embrace my true self. The desire to start a business led to the birth of Paula O! Store, born out of frustration with societal standards that box people into molds.
The essence of Paula O! Store lies in the Be You Movement, using my merch to empower others to embrace their individuality and pursue their life’s purpose with boldness and adventure.
My latest collection, CEO BRAIN & Be The Change Agent, celebrates the mind of a CEO and the creative mindset of an entrepreneur. The symbol on the merch represents the scattered yet innovative thoughts that drive entrepreneurs forward. I aim to break the cookie-cutter norms and highlight the beauty of unique, creative minds. My merch has been featured in the Flying Solo Miami Fashion Swim Week, Elle Magazine, and Harper’s Baazar Vietnam.
With my brand, I want to encourage others to take bold leaps in discovering their passions and embarking on new adventures. Life is too short to wait for permission; instead, it’s about taking charge and finding success on your terms.
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) Adaptability: The ability to pivot and adapt to changing circumstances and market conditions is crucial for long-term success. Entrepreneurs must be flexible and open to new ideas, ready to adjust their strategies as needed.
2) Financial Literacy: Understanding the financial aspects of running a business, including budgeting, financial planning, and investment, is essential. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions that ensure the financial health and growth of the business.
3) Networking and Relationship Building: Building a strong network of contacts, including mentors, and industry peers, can provide valuable support, advice, and opportunities. Strong relationships can open doors to new partnerships and resources that are vital for business growth.
These areas are the most important as they supported me on my journey and continue to do so today. No one should have to go through life alone. Making daily investments in learning something new will help you stay on top of your game. Consistency is key!
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Being an entrepreneur comes with its challenges. It’s an exhilarating journey, but it requires consistent active innovation. This means staying on top of your game and making sure you stand out in a crowded market that offers the same thing you do. It can be overwhelming even when there is great success. In those moments, I refocus and pinpoint the root of the issue causing this feeling. This helps me to learn to pause and think before making irrational decisions. Once I discover the problem, I write it down and ask myself what possible solutions could make things better. This method usually helps me find a solution, but sometimes I need input from a trusted mentor. I never try to make decisions alone when so much is at stake.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paulaostore.com
- Instagram: @paulaostore
- Other: Merch Collection: www.paulaostoremerch.com
Image Credits
Merch on models (event: Flying Solo Miami Swim Week)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
