Throughout my life, I have never been ashamed to openly admit that I have severe dyslexia and ADHD. While my condition has presented numerous challenges, I can't deny that it has had its positive aspects as well. It is both a curse and a blessing. From a very young age, I made a resolute decision that whatever obstacles I faced or whatever condition I had, it would never impede my path to success.
As I grew up, I came to understand that my mind functions differently from others. Reading and writing posed significant difficulties, but I also discovered that I possessed strong problem-solving skills and a highly creative mind. You know the saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Although I wasn't familiar with it as a child, looking back, that's exactly what I did.
Looking at my workstation right now, it may appear disorderly to some, but to me, it represents the epitome of organization. I have scribbles and tags scattered all over, serving as reminders and keeping me on track. At the heart of it, is my extensive mind map, a powerful tool that helps me organise my thoughts and plan my business strategies. As a visual thinker, this visual representation aligns perfectly with my cognitive style. It's fascinating to consider whether others can truly grasp the essence of my mind map, given its seemingly chaotic display. Nevertheless, every plan and strategy I create finds its rightful place on this map, allowing me to breathe life into my ideas and maintain my focus.
Did you know that I consider myself both an introvert and an extrovert? I find enjoyment in spending time alone, as well as being around others and engaging in social interactions. When it comes to my business, I prefer to keep my team as small as possible. Even in my bridal business, I only had a very small team consisting of my seamstresses and my assistant. These individuals truly understood my condition and knew exactly how to work effectively with me. I wouldn't say that I'm a difficult person, but given the unique way my mind operates, it's important for me to have people who understand and support me. I am truly grateful for my team and my family, who have been a source of blessings in my life. Similarly, in my luxury perfume business, I am also committed to maintaining a small yet trusted team. I value working with individuals who complement my style and share the same vision as me, which is to grow Chandrika Thomas London.
These days, as I'm ready to expand my brand, a typical day for me begins at 5 am. I find this early start time beneficial because the environment is calm and serene. I thrive in quiet places where I can think clearly, as I tend to get easily distracted. Occasionally, I experience moments where I have an abundance of thoughts and ideas that struggle to find an outlet. These situations used to be stressful and frustrating, but I've learned to cope with them over time.
When I start feeling overwhelmed, I've developed strategies to help me relax and unwind. Taking breaks is crucial for me. I find solace in listening to music, engaging in activities like baking, spending time outdoors to breathe in the fresh air, playing with my boy Ollie, tending to my garden, or even working out at the gym. Sometimes, I find immense pleasure in simply listening to nature and enjoying the fragrance of flowers. It's as if I can mentally activate a button in my ears and nose to fully experience the beauty around me. Engaging in these activities allows me to reset and refocus, enabling me to tackle challenges with renewed energy.
Let me take you on a journey through my fragrance crafting process. Within the comfort of my personal fragrance laboratory at home, I dive deep into the world of oils, plants, and flowers to create truly unique fragrances. It's not just about casually smelling the oils; I blend them with careful consideration for my clients' personalities, the composition of the fragrance, and even the names that accompany them. Drawing inspiration from my past experiences, I recollect the scents, colours, and forms associated with the diverse places I've encountered. This initial stage is meticulous and time-consuming, setting the foundation for the rest of the process.
I carefully evaluate each blend, paying close attention to individual notes and their interactions. To ensure the highest standards of safety and quality, I collaborate with skilled chemists who provide expertise and guidance throughout the process. This iterative process involves constant adjustments and refinements, as I strive to align the fragrance with my vision. It's a back-and-forth journey that requires a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For me, it's not just about earning money; it's about creating a brand that embodies my passion and dedication. I pour my heart and soul into every aspect, aiming to provide my clients with the luxurious experience they truly deserve.
This deep dive into my process is just the beginning. There is so much more to the story of how I built my business, and I look forward to sharing more insights in the future. I hope this brief glimpse has provided you with a better understanding of my creative mindset and the dedication I put into building my brand.
