You might be surprised to find out that the question I get asked the most often isn’t about makeup, but about how I’ve built my businesses. Over the years, I’ve switched up my career multiple times and I’ve learned a lot along the way. So in honor of October being National Women’s Small Business Month, I teamed up with my friends over at PNC Bank to answer some of the business questions I get asked the most often.

What was the most important thing you learned as you first started your business?

To hire people who were better than me at doing specific roles/jobs. I learned that following your gut is more important than listening to what people tell you to do.

How do you manage work life balance?

I always make sure to use my schedule to my advantage, busy or not, I keep a routine every day. I make sure to put in time for exercise, my family, and of course work. Depending on the craziness of the week, I can add more time to recharge or plan for a needed day off.

What was the largest obstacle you’ve had to overcome with your businesses and how did you handle it?

The largest obstacle I’ve had to overcome is my own lack of patience and wanting things done immediately. Thankfully, I have a great support team that keeps me in the loop and updated every step of the way. It’s all about communication.

As a business owner, how do you deal with obstacles that cross your path?

I confront them head on. If a door in front of me closes, I find a window to crawl through. I try to breathe, I try to understand when I’m emotional or just tired, and I never think about things late at night.

What advice do you have for women entrepreneurs who are scared to take the leap and launch their business?

Go slow. Make sure you have the resources to be self-sustainable. Be smart, creative, and scrappy. Use things that are quick and will help you get where you need to go.

If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give your 10-year-old-self?

I would tell myself to not be so hard on yourself and that it will all work out and you’re not like everyone else. Stay curious. That curiosity, in all regards, people, places, things, is going to lead you in the right direction

What is your personal mantra?

Just do it... kidding, that’s taken, but it is one of my favorites. My personal mantra is be kind, be open, be confident. If you practice those things, good things will follow.