We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Claudia Fimbres. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Claudia below.
Claudia, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Finding my purpose in life has been a deeply personal journey. It’s about understanding that the talents and gifts I possess are not just for my own enjoyment, but they are meant to be shared with the world.
I’ve always had a strong connection to my artistic abilities. The more I delved into my creative side, the more I realized that these talents were not just random skills I had acquired; they were gifts given to me. This realization made me feel that I have a responsibility to share these gifts with others.
My purpose, in essence, is not just about self-fulfillment but about making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. It’s about using my creativity to inspire and connect with others, to leave a meaningful mark on the world.
Discovering my purpose has given me a sense of direction and motivation in my creative pursuits. It’s a reminder that these talents are not truly mine alone but are part of a larger, shared experience. My purpose is to embrace and share these talents with the world, in the hope of inspiring and leaving a positive legacy for others to follow.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
During the pandemic, I found myself needing to pivot and reinvent my brand. That’s when I decided to focus on providing comfort to frontline workers, especially nurses who were spending long, grueling hours on their feet. I started by giving back to them and delivering socks to hospitals. The response from the nurses was heartwarming, and they quickly became my most significant customer base. Their support kept my small company going.
As time went on, I encountered challenges with the rising costs of materials in the US, particularly threads used in sock manufacturing. So, I decided to adapt. I took the vibrant and fun designs from my socks and transformed them into a coloring book. To my surprise, I found that people were not only interested in coloring but also in learning how to paint. I posted about it on Instagram, and this led to me being hired to teach paint night classes.
I realized that the world was eager to reconnect, and people were looking for creative outlets to express themselves. This is when I decided to create a sub-company called Create with Me LA, where I teach art classes and provide a space for artistic expression and connection.
While I continue to run Puchie Socks, I also branched out into the world of clothing with a brand called Soul Thredz. Building on my manufacturing experience, I began creating T-shirts with funny sayings and quirky designs that resonate with people. These are often things that many people think but may not say out loud.
I’ve found tremendous success in this space and have had the privilege of working as an instructor and creator at Soul Thredz. What inspires me the most is the opportunity to bring a smile to people’s faces and make a positive impact on their lives. Whether it’s through colorful socks, creative art classes, or fun and relatable clothing, my journey has been a testament to the power of adaptation, creativity, and the joy of connecting with others.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as the most impactful:
Adaptability: My ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and challenges has been a driving force in my journey. The pandemic threw an unexpected curveball my way, and I had to quickly pivot and reinvent my business. My advice for those starting their journey is to embrace change and be open to new directions. Don’t be afraid to adjust your course when necessary, and view challenges as opportunities for growth.
Resilience: Resilience has been my lifeline during the tough moments of my entrepreneurial path. There were times of doubt and setbacks, but my determination to overcome obstacles kept me going. For those just starting out, it’s important to remember that setbacks are a natural part of the process. What matters is how you bounce back from them. Stay committed to your goals, learn from your failures, and keep moving forward.
Networking and Relationship Building: Building strong connections within and beyond my industry has been a game-changer. The support and collaboration with the nursing community, for example, were crucial during the pandemic. For those starting their journey, I encourage you to actively engage with your industry, seek out mentors, and connect with like-minded individuals who can offer guidance and support.
In essence, adaptability, resilience, and networking have been key to my journey. These qualities and skills have helped me navigate challenges and seize opportunities. To those embarking on their own journey, I’d emphasize the importance of developing these traits. Be open to change, stay resilient in the face of adversity, and build a network of allies who can offer both support and inspiration along the way.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to instill in me a strong work ethic, a sense of resilience, and the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. Coming from a Mexican background as a first-generation American, I witnessed my parents working tirelessly to provide us with an education and create opportunities for themselves as entrepreneurs.
My dad, in particular, had a profound influence on my outlook. He demonstrated that success isn’t just about formal education but also about tenacity, determination, and a willingness to learn and adapt. He surrounded himself with influential people and taught me the invaluable lesson that I should never feel inferior, regardless of my educational background. He always said, “You are always worthy of a seat at the table with all the greats.” This mantra has been a guiding principle in my life, reminding me that I have a place alongside accomplished individuals, and it’s perfectly okay to ask questions and continue learning.
The encouragement, determination, and wisdom passed down from my parents have been invaluable in shaping my entrepreneurial journey. It taught me that success is not limited by one’s origins or education but is about seizing opportunities, working hard, and continually seeking knowledge. These lessons have become the foundation of my professional and personal growth, and I hope to pass them on to future generations as well.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @create.with.me.la @puchiesocks
