Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1235208
38 ascp skin deep COVID-19 special issue 2020 After returning home from a business trip, I saw something that changed the course of my life forever: the largest blackhead I had ever seen! Witnessing this marvel completely distracted me from the fact that I just spent three hours on an airplane contemplating my future and the direction I wanted to take. I was obsessed with wanting to set that sebum free! I mean, I didn't know what sebum was at the time, but I had to see it come out. It was then that I knew. That was it—I was going to be an esthetician. I continued to work full-time while attending esthetic school in the evening. I didn't miss a day and graduated with hope and ambition. I was not going to work for anyone. Instead, I was going to start my own business and rent space in an adorable little salon. It wasn't easy, but it was mine. Just as I was gaining momentum and my appointment book was filling up, it happened—the economic crisis of 2007, and then the great recession of 2008. To say "times were tough" would be underplaying the discomfort, panic, and stress of those few years. We struggled, but my little rented-booth business—and many other similar small businesses—made it through. Now, I own a thriving skin care studio with employees, booth renters, and an amazing clientele. We know hindsight is 20/20, and with the wisdom and experience gained through those troubling times, here are a few of my own tips to ensure that this setback becomes the platform for your comeback. PERSONAL CONNECTION The relationships I built with my early clients are a main reason for my current success. My first clients were my guinea pigs and cheerleaders, and they became We are living through a lot of unknowns right now, and you can be certain things will be different when it's over as we find our "new normal." In the meantime, don't panic or wallow, but take advantage of the family time (or alone time), fall in love with home cooking, and make time to enjoy the sunshine— protected by your favorite SPF, of course.