We were lucky to catch up with Shaedy Cardenas recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shaedy, 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 will say, it’s hard for me to pinpoint where exactly I get my work ethic from; I’ve always resonated with J. Cole’s lyrics, “No role models and I’m here right now.” I grew up with a lot of people around me setting examples of what I didn’t want to end up like, and I saw a lot of patterns that I didn’t want to repeat. I guess I got my work ethic from all the struggle I had to endure growing up, and I’m not ashamed of it because it shaped me, but it also fueled a fire in me to be better for myself, and my family. Tupac once said, “Just because you’re in the ghetto doesn’t mean you can’t grow.” I’ve resonated with that a lot, and in all honesty, I developed the work ethic I have today because I simply had no other choice. I did not want to become a victim of my circumstances, I chose to work hard and rise above them instead. I’m forever thankful.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a self taught graphic designer and I help people start, expand or rebrand their businesses with SC Design Co..The past couple of years I’ve worked closely with many new and existing business owners to bring their brands’ visions to life. Currently, I mainly provide brand packages which include a custom designed logo (3-4 ways), social media content and choice of business cards and/or stickers. I also offer custom prints such as invitations, menus, etc.. I love what I do, bringing designs to life from scratch, and I think my style is classy and unique. Initially this started out as a hobby when my actual day job got too stressful, and since I’m self taught I learn a lot through each project I complete. Truthfully, I didn’t foresee myself getting to the level of success that I’ve achieved, but I’m so grateful. Whether it’s drawing, painting, creating graphics, textile arts, ceramics, etc., I think it’s so important for everyone to have a creative outlet in their lives, and I’m here to help in any way that I can. I also work a full-time job in Medical Administration which I will continue to do as it helps me to live comfortably, but I hope to expand my business in the upcoming years to include in-house printing services.
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?
I think it’s important to focus on having the inner knowing that you’re on the right path, it may feel uncomfortable at first but it will be worth it. The willingness to continue to learn and perfect your craft is crucial also, and most importantly, working hard even if your success is slowly rising. My advice is to have faith and patience that if you want something bad enough, it will work out. And if it doesn’t, dust yourself off and try again. Set your goals and be persistent and enjoy life, but keep focused on the bigger picture.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Personally, when I feel overwhelmed I will go into “hermit mode” and focus my energy back into myself, and put my attention towards working on my craft, and trying new design techniques. I suggest taking a step back and creating something you’re passionate about but maybe haven’t had the clientele for. This helps to bring the fun and excitement back into what you do, and it’s also a great way to expand your portfolio. For me, it also helps take away the stress of catering to my client since I get to have the creative freedom that I crave, and the space to learn and grow. Overall, my advice is to continue working even when you don’t have the clients, make mock-designs, learn new techniques and continue to showcase your work regardless.
Contact Info:
- Website: shaedyc.co
- Instagram: shaedyc.co
