The importance of chasing your dreams

I had a close friend recently tell me how inspirational it was that I love what I do. “You actually design things, and not for the money, but because you love it.” She said it with such emphasis, that I was really taken aback. No matter where you are in your life—no matter what  age, or situation you are in, I think it is SO important to chase your dreams—to bring a sense of purpose in your life that doesn’t involve the mundane. My friend flattered me and made me think of how rare it is to meet people who chase their dreams, make sacrifices, and absolutely love what they do. I am, however, in New York City, where there is no shortage of such individuals. I consider myself extremely lucky—not only to be living in New York, but to be surrounded by infinite inspiration and positive energy. It is a thrill to wake up and walk outside that door, knowing that each day is a different day, and that the possibilities of each day are innumerable.  When I moved up here, I didn’t have any expectations when it came to friendships. I figured, I’d just wing it and if I’m lucky it happens. Well it just so happened that I struck gold. I met Brandy Pham, an accessories/jewelry designer  and fellow dreamer. Her work is evolving beautifully, and her work ethic is beyond anyone’s I’ve met. The sacrifices Brandy has made, as well as the goodness of her heart still has me in awe to this day. I also had the opportunity to meet a fellow Texan and longtime New Yorker, Mimi Nguyen, who started a fashion tech company in a mere number of months (amazing!). Her company, Thre.ad, is sure to make a huge impact in the fashion and technology industry. Not only is Mimi incredibly charismatic, but her ability to manage and produce such a high quality product blows my mind. I also joined a friend from high school, Kim Lai of Bloom Bazaar, whose beautifully hand created couture-like accessories are the work of a true artist. Kim gave up everything she had to come to New York and pursue her dream, and is a constant reminder of how lucky am to be here in New York with her. More recently, through a good friend, I was lucky to be able to meet  another dreamer (and fellow texan, former New Yorker, now residing in L.A), whose handbags are chic, incredibly well made, and a fashion staple. Toni Truong of By Toni, is the sweetest and one of the most driven individuals I’ve met. I’ve only been in New York for three years, and what a blessing it’s been to be surrounded by immensely positive energy and inspiration. When you are this lucky, there is nowhere to go but up—and what’s great about all of these girls is that everyone is willing to help one another and go out of their way to support and uplift each other. Maybe its the magic of New York, but I know deep inside that the leap of faith that I took that gave me the amazing relationships with the most amazing people.

No one but those who have done it can tell you how it feels to love what you do, and to do what you love. Life is most definitely to short to fear your dreams.