Carolyn Luu

Profession/Title: 
Stylist & Salon Owner

Where You’re From:
Saigon, Vietnam

1). How did you figure out that this ‘work’ was your calling?

I had no prior knowledge or interests in hairstyling. I stumbled upon it. I am a stumbler. I stumble onto things, LOL. Over time, I realized that it’s more than just making people look their best. It’s the deep connection I have with my clients that makes this path more meaningful.

2). What/who empowered you to chase this dream for yourself?

I was only 19 when I got into the field. I thought I was too young to make a career decision. One of my clients encouraged me to keep going and start my own business some day (it was a male client!)

3). Was there ever a time you were ready to give up on your dream? What made you keep going?

Life is a journey and getting to your goals are also a journey. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and did something different every five years or so. I went from working for someone else to being an independent contractor, to owning my own salon, to starting my own product line. When you push yourself out of the comfort zone, there is always a huge learning curve. There were times when I felt like giving up every other day. What kept me going was the understanding that it was just a learning curve.

4). What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? (or the worst, and why?)

The best advice I have ever received was to always set goals, no matter how big or small. The worst and I am so glad I never took it: Don’t deposit the checks (pre-credit cards) into your bank account. Cash them instead, and you don’t have to pay income taxes. Worst advice ever!!

5). What impact would you like your work to leave on the world?

This “Coronapocalypse” that we’re experiencing is a reminder of what’s truly important: Relationships with one another. I took for granted that my work and my clients would always be there. I now know that when I reconnect with my existing clients, or new ones, we will form a bond that is deeper and even longer lasting.

8). Favorite quote?

“Thanks to impermanence, everything is possible.”

Thich Nhat Hanh

BONUS QUESTIONS:

What life event have you lived through that would make a great movie?

The boat journey when we escaped Vietnam and the time we lived in a refugee camp. Talk about adventure!

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