We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Vanessa Valencia a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Vanessa, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Honestly you gotta embrace it and use it. It’s hard to get rid of it so just try your best not to let it affect your success. I know alot of cookiers who suffer from this and knowing I’m not alone helps me immensely. I also have chosen to say yes to more opportunities. Putting myself out there. Opening myself to new challenges can open more doors for me. That’s why I try not to let that little voice in my head to deter me from doing what I love. And the most important thing I do is I’m kind with myself. I allow myself grace and pick myself up when needed.
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?
Nessa’s Goodies started on a prayer and a dream lol. I never imagined that I’d be here 5 years later. I’ve always been a baker but never really found cookies to be appealing and here I am. I have loved every second of my journey. I love that people allow me to be a part of their special moments. Hell I’ve made cookies for people to add to their walls as pieces of art. It makes me extremely happy and proud of what I do. Yes they are works of art that happen to be edible. So if you aren’t really into sweets but want some awesomely sweet art hit me up and let’s make something you can preserve for years to come. I also participate in markets so if you’re ever in the Chula Vista area come find us at Illusion Hall on 3rd Avenue for some delicious cookies. I’m there once a month. You can find me at the upcoming friendship pop up market February 4,2024 from 11am-4pm. Or if you can’t wait you can always order from me on my site.
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?
I think for me personally being creative and passionate has impacted my journey the most. I’ve always been into drawing and painting and this helps me when it comes to creating these amazing works of art that people get to enjoy, one bite at a time. And lastly knowing that people love cookies. I’ve learned that sometimes it doesn’t even have to be the way it looks that brings people back for more but more so the way you make them. The way they taste is what keeps people around. Sure a beautiful cookies catches your eye but the taste is what keeps them wanting more. To all those starting out on their journeys whatever that may be. Don’t give up at the first sign of trouble. Keep pushing through. Make the best of it and have fun.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I would love to partner with a coffee shop, colleges, small mom and pop type shops. Maybe a restaurant or something fun like that. Let’s work together to get our names out there. Small business unite. If anyone is interested my email is on my site. I would love to work with any and everyone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nessasgoodies.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NessasGoodies/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nessasgoodies-256318511843425/
