We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Smita Netra. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Smita below.
Smita, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
Growing up in South Asia, my upbringing was steeped in the values of hard work and perseverance. My parents, like many immigrants, instilled in me the importance of resilience and determination from an early age. In a region known for its vibrant culture and rich history, I witnessed firsthand the resilience of our communities, facing challenges with unwavering resolve.
Upon immigrating to a new country, those values became even more crucial. Navigating the unfamiliar terrain of a new culture and environment, my upbringing grounded me in the belief that hard work and perseverance were the keys to success. As an immigrant, every milestone achieved was a testament to the sacrifices made by my family and the resilience ingrained in our heritage.
In this new land, surrounded by diverse opportunities and challenges, the lessons learned from South Asia became guiding principles. They formed the backbone of my journey as an entrepreneur, shaping the ethos of Banyan and Birch. The fusion of my cultural roots with the energy of my new home in Boston created a unique synergy, fueling our brand’s resilience and drive to succeed.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At Banyan and Birch, we take pride in preserving the traditional printing techniques of artisans, ensuring that their age-old craftsmanship continues to thrive in the modern world. By incorporating these techniques into our production process, we not only honor their heritage but also empower these skilled artisans to sustain their livelihoods.
Moreover, we understand the importance of collaboration, which is why we work closely with retailers and designers to cater to their specific needs. Whether it’s customizing designs, exploring new materials, or offering tailored solutions, our goal is to provide a seamless experience that exceeds expectations. This collaborative approach allows us to stay attuned to the ever-evolving demands of the market while maintaining the integrity of our brand.
In an industry often driven by fleeting trends, we remain steadfast in our commitment to timeless elegance. By eschewing passing fads and focusing on enduring quality and design, we ensure that our products stand the test of time. This dedication to authenticity and longevity is what sets us apart, allowing us to create pieces that resonate with discerning customers who appreciate craftsmanship and sophistication.
What excites me most about our work is the opportunity to bridge cultural boundaries through our products. Each piece is not just a home linen but a story woven with threads of tradition and innovation. It’s about bringing a touch of the exotic and the familiar into people’s homes, creating spaces that reflect both comfort and sophistication.
As we continue to grow, we’re constantly exploring new avenues to expand our offerings and reach. Recently, we’ve launched an exclusive collection inspired by traditional Indian motifs reimagined for contemporary lifestyles. This collection represents our commitment to honoring heritage while embracing modernity, and it’s been incredibly exciting to see the positive response from our customers.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as particularly impactful: resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere in the face of challenges has been crucial in navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. My advice to those starting their journey is to cultivate resilience by embracing failures as learning opportunities and maintaining a positive mindset. Surround yourself with a supportive network, draw strength from your values, and remain focused on your long-term goals.
Adaptability: In today’s rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt to new circumstances and pivot when necessary is essential for success. Stay open-minded, flexible, and willing to explore new ideas and approaches. Be ready to pivot!
Continuous Learning: The journey of entrepreneurship is a constant learning experience, and a willingness to acquire new knowledge and skills is paramount. Stay curious, stay hungry for knowledge, and never stop seeking ways to improve yourself and your business. Whether through formal education, mentorship, or self-directed learning, prioritize personal and professional development as a cornerstone of your journey.
To those embarking on their entrepreneurial path, my advice is simple: believe in yourself, stay resilient in the face of challenges, embrace change, and never stop learning and growing.
My Indian parents would say “Nazar na lage” meaning hope the evil eye doesn’t catch you haha
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, my first instinct is to reach out to my husband and my family, who are my biggest support system. Having their understanding and encouragement is invaluable during challenging times. Simply talking things through with them often helps me gain perspective and feel reassured.
While it’s natural to feel stressed out, I remind myself that this feeling is temporary and that challenges are part of the journey. This mindset shift helps me maintain a sense of calm and resilience. I focus on taking things one step at a time, breaking tasks down into manageable chunks, and prioritizing self-care activities like meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature.
Additionally, I find solace in knowing that I’ve overcome challenges in the past and have the resilience to overcome them again. By staying grounded in the present moment and trusting in my ability to navigate difficult situations, I’m able to weather the storm with grace and determination. I am a strong believer of “This too shall pass”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://banyanandbirch.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/banyanandbirch
