Let’s pivot to some more personal questions. You have two daughters. What have you taught them about following their dreams and career goals?
My husband and I often remind the girls to be kind to others, and most importantly, to be kind to themselves. We tell them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to and not give up when things get tough.
Our girls are now 7 and 9 years old. When they were younger, sometimes they would draw and make a mistake. This would get them frustrated and even get them crying. We would take that opportunity to turn that mistake into a new creation.
This is another thing we teach them: to turn lemons into lemonade.
We make sure to tell our children that even we, the parents, are humans just like them. We show them that it’s okay to be vulnerable, to have emotions, and to have ups and downs. Sometimes when things are hard, something as small as a hug or a smile can make a world of difference.
Every day, my children ask me how my day is going. And then if I say it's a bad day they say, "Do you need a hug? Do you need some hot water?" And it's the best feeling.
After work hours, how do you unwind? What are some tips for having a healthy work and life balance?
I love spending time with my family, watching TV, or just hanging out. Sometimes we spend a quiet moment as a family: we stay close, and everyone reads their book together.
What are you most proud of recently?
I am most proud of what my daughters taught me. Every evening, during dinner, the girls have a tradition of getting everyone to say what they are thankful for. It makes us be in the present and appreciate every little thing in life.
In life, everyone is at times a student and at times a teacher.
More to come from the People of PLANOLY. Check back in soon to hear more and in the meantime, meet our new CEO, Christina Martinez!