Instagram content
You can also view the content on the source site.
On overcoming imposter syndrome
Cary: For anyone looking at starting something, that feeling of fear and butterflies and, like, “You shouldn’t be here” is actually a great signal that you should be doing this. There’s a thin line between being scared and leaning into the experience of something that’s going to be the path of highest growth and development for you, because it means you’re challenging yourself and taking up space. Enjoy the discomfort and take it as a sign that you’re doing something really special or that you’re doing something you’re not going to regret.
Deepica:It was perfect. That’s exactly it. I’m going to remind myself what you just said all the time because it’s so real. It’s also surrounding yourself with people that remind you to knock fear out of your head, whether that’s friends, mentors, family, even coworkers. People I work with see it in me and tell me that I am worthy to be here. You’re in this space for a reason. I hope you realize how much you’re meant to be here.
Cary:May is Mental Health Awareness Month. For me, it feels like Asian Americans are afraid to discuss mental health. In broader society, it’s becoming more accepted as self-care, and wellness expands a bit, but even in my community with my parents, they don’t want to talk about it as much. Therapy is one thing that has really helped. Therapy has helped me tremendously in allowing me to share my mental health concerns, whether they are related to social media or being a female founder.
Deepica:I agree. Therapy has been a gamechanger.
Mentorship is vital
Deepica: I have a question for you. What can I do?
Cary: I know you’re busy and folks are busy, so the things that have helped most is being really comfortable and blunt on a very specific problem, like dealing with a relationship with a manufacturer or [saying], “I’ve had a male investor do this and how am I supposed to navigate it?” It feels safer to talk to someone who has been through it. Even if that’s 15 minutes of your time, that would be so helpful.
Deepica: I’m a big Voice Note person. We can exchange Voice Notes. It is hard to find the time to keep a schedule, but I do try to listen to Voice Notes while I’m at work and then respond when I can. I try to do those as short and concise as possible because you don’t need the fluff answers. Let’s do it. I’m in.
Keep your company true to you
Cary:How can you remain true to your values while your company grows?
Deepica:This is what I spend most of my time thinking about. The brand’s values are what gives it its unique sparkle. The best thing I’ve been able to do, with some mistakes along the way, is focus on who we hire because their passion and how much they love working at the brand comes through. It is difficult at this point to find the right person for the job. It was trial and error when I was there. But keep this in mind as you’re going through the interviewing process.
Source: Glamour
