We recently connected with Amanda Thorne and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Amanda, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
I would say that I get my work ethic from my family. Growing up, both of my parents worked hard to provide for us, and they did whatever it took to give us a great education, and the ability to be involved with events at school or in our community. Seeing them work so hard doing traditional 9-5 jobs, and a lot of extra work outside of those hours, made me grateful, and instilled those traits within me, but I also realized that I didn’t want that rigid work schedule for myself. I wanted the flexibility to see my kids more, and my extended family, It motivated me to try something non-traditional, where I could make my own hours, and be my own boss. My kids might get sick of me, but I love that I can go on field trips and see them grow up.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I started my business as a Creative Stylist almost 12 years ago which doesn’t seem possible. I jumped in with both feet, and never looked back. Over the years I’ve realized that I need to work with people who inspire me. That’s what keeps me excited and fired up about what I do. When others have passion, it’s contagious and it’s when I do my best work, because I’m so invested in the outcome.
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 the three biggest qualities that helped me are my tenacity, empathy, and work ethic/perfectionism. Once I make my mind up that I want to do something, I’m a woman on a mission, and I will work as much, and as hard as it takes. I’ve learned to work smarter and not harder over the years, and am still trying to do better in that area.
I’m also able to put myself in other people’s shoes, and would consider myself an empath which helps me in so many ways. I understand what people are going through on their big day and I can help calm nerves, I know how exciting it feels to be a new mother wanting to do a maternity shoot or having family photos taken to preserve memories. I understand and empathize with business owners, or people who want to take their branding seriously to move the needle on their platforms and accomplish business goals. When I can put myself in your shoes, it makes me do everything in my power to make sure you’re getting the feeling and look you want on all of those occasions. I’m your biggest cheerleader, and my perfectionism comes in handy getting you the look and vibe you want. My advice for those just starting on their journey would be to make sure you have a connection to what you’re doing and to those you are working with. Don’t just go through the motions; connect with the people who are putting their trust in you!
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Honestly, it’s the most beautiful patchwork of people who have helped me over the years. When I think back, I can see all of these outstanding humans who have encouraged me, and let me have the freedom to become myself, and dream and believe that I can do hard things. My parents have always been my supporters, professors in college (shoutout to Dr. Rang!), my voice teacher in high school (Betty Hemmert), several bosses that I’ve had in my career, my siblings, my husband, friends who’ve lifted me up, and clients who make me feel so appreciated, and other business owners who inspire me everyday. All of these people have helped me overcome challenges and develop over the years, and I’m grateful for all of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thorneartistry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thorneartistry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thorneartistry/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/thorne-artistry-la-jolla
Image Credits
The Hearts Haven, Aubrey Oothout, Andy Shepard Photo, Lin & Jirsa Photography, Trynh Photo, The Times We Have Photography
