Overcome Your Own Doubts
with Idalia Salsamendi
Introduce yourself! Who are you?
Hey there, Idalia Salsamendi here!
Hey there, Idalia Salsamendi here!
Have you ever had anyone doubt you? How did that make you feel?
Of course! That’s the magic of growing up and becoming an adult – it’s natural for people to doubt you. The most incredible part of coming into your own is being able to overcome your own doubts about yourself. I think that’s more powerful. People will continue to doubt, that’s human nature, and that’s something I’ve learned to accept. What I refuse to accept, however, is me doubting myself.
Of course! That’s the magic of growing up and becoming an adult – it’s natural for people to doubt you. The most incredible part of coming into your own is being able to overcome your own doubts about yourself. I think that’s more powerful. People will continue to doubt, that’s human nature, and that’s something I’ve learned to accept. What I refuse to accept, however, is me doubting myself.
What message do you think every woman should hear?
You are enough.
You are enough.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned along the way?
The most powerful lesson I’ve learned along the way is that you have to play fair and you have to be kind. In the fashion industry, there tends to be a sickly incorrect perception that you have to be some sort of diva and bulldoze through everyone to get ahead. The truth actually lies in the exact opposite corner. It’s those people who create authentic relationships, and those who lift others up that always get ahead. Kindness begets kindness. There’s enough room in the table for all.
The most powerful lesson I’ve learned along the way is that you have to play fair and you have to be kind. In the fashion industry, there tends to be a sickly incorrect perception that you have to be some sort of diva and bulldoze through everyone to get ahead. The truth actually lies in the exact opposite corner. It’s those people who create authentic relationships, and those who lift others up that always get ahead. Kindness begets kindness. There’s enough room in the table for all.
What motivates you most?
Knowing that I can make a difference. Whenever I sign on to a new project or a new client, my core motivation purely stems from the thought that I can truly make a difference in that person’s life.
Knowing that I can make a difference. Whenever I sign on to a new project or a new client, my core motivation purely stems from the thought that I can truly make a difference in that person’s life.
What do you do on a daily basis to grow and move forward?
Meditation has been such a life-changing tool for me. Learning how to silence my mind and allow myself to just “be” is pure magic. I’m also an avid reader – I love reading about other people’s lives and how they overcame obstacles. I love self-help and business books. I love learning. What our generation needs to realize is just because we’ve finished school doesn’t mean we stop learning and become complacent. Just the opposite! Feed your mind, feed your soul.
Meditation has been such a life-changing tool for me. Learning how to silence my mind and allow myself to just “be” is pure magic. I’m also an avid reader – I love reading about other people’s lives and how they overcame obstacles. I love self-help and business books. I love learning. What our generation needs to realize is just because we’ve finished school doesn’t mean we stop learning and become complacent. Just the opposite! Feed your mind, feed your soul.
Do you have a mentor? If so, what did they teach you?
My three greatest mentors have all given me such beautiful lessons :
My three greatest mentors have all given me such beautiful lessons :
My mom (also named Idalia Salsamendi) has taught me to always follow my dreams. She’s my biggest cheerleader and I know I wouldn’t be half the woman I am today if it wasn’t for her unwavering faith in my potential.
My aunt (Ileana Claffey) taught me the power of being a woman…that we are not second class citizens, that we are strong, and that there is also strength in vulnerability. She’s helped me find my voice and has always made it clear that I should never apologize for being who I am.
My work mentor (Alexis Borges) taught me that you can’t pursue things just for the money. This was a hard lesson. At an early age, we are taught to chase a paycheck. What Alexis drilled in me that you can’t sell your soul. I have to do things the right/ethical way even if it means losing money or disappointing people. My peace of mind and knowing I did the right/ethical thing will always outweigh money. He couldn’t be more right.
What is one thing people would be surprised to hear about you?
Ha! Love this question… hmmm… I was a SUPER shy kid! Painfully shy! Isn’t that just wild? It wasn’t until much later in my life that I learned to open up and have fun and trust me that it was a conscious decision I made because being shy just wasn’t cutting it out for me.
Ha! Love this question… hmmm… I was a SUPER shy kid! Painfully shy! Isn’t that just wild? It wasn’t until much later in my life that I learned to open up and have fun and trust me that it was a conscious decision I made because being shy just wasn’t cutting it out for me.
Why did you start your company?
When starting Idalia Salsamendi INC, the most vital element was creating an authentic and open space for whomever I work with in order to better their business. I wanted to ensure that whoever sought my help could receive it: whether it’s through my one-on-one business strategy sessions, my Master Classes, my podcast (Realization Podcast), or through my Online Business Kits (www.IdaliaSalsamendi.com). The fashion and digital world are not about creating an ego-centric and superficial space, it’s about creating a community that can inspire, informs and empower – my company’s slogan!
When starting Idalia Salsamendi INC, the most vital element was creating an authentic and open space for whomever I work with in order to better their business. I wanted to ensure that whoever sought my help could receive it: whether it’s through my one-on-one business strategy sessions, my Master Classes, my podcast (Realization Podcast), or through my Online Business Kits (www.IdaliaSalsamendi.com). The fashion and digital world are not about creating an ego-centric and superficial space, it’s about creating a community that can inspire, informs and empower – my company’s slogan!
Were you scared to start your business?
I’m sure there were some fears along the way but they were overshadowed by my hope and excitement. I’m that kind of girl that when something scares me, I dive head in!
I’m sure there were some fears along the way but they were overshadowed by my hope and excitement. I’m that kind of girl that when something scares me, I dive head in!
What is something on your bucket list?
Where do I start? Writing a book, being a speaker for TedTalk, seeing the Northern Lights, going on a yoga retreat in India…
Where do I start? Writing a book, being a speaker for TedTalk, seeing the Northern Lights, going on a yoga retreat in India…
What are your biggest passions?
From the bottom of my heart, all my passions lie in trying to make the world a better place. I know that I sound like a contestant in the Miss America pageant, but it’s my truth. Growing up, my mother instilled it in me that I have to leave things better than how I found it. And although at 7 years old I would roll my eyes, at 35 years old I’ve made it my life’s mission. I don’t want to be old one day and realize I was part of the problem, I want to be part of the solution.
From the bottom of my heart, all my passions lie in trying to make the world a better place. I know that I sound like a contestant in the Miss America pageant, but it’s my truth. Growing up, my mother instilled it in me that I have to leave things better than how I found it. And although at 7 years old I would roll my eyes, at 35 years old I’ve made it my life’s mission. I don’t want to be old one day and realize I was part of the problem, I want to be part of the solution.
More About Idalia
Transcending time zones to propel businesses forward, Business Strategist Idalia Salsamendi is revolutionizing the influencer space like none before her. With over a decade of invaluable experience and a 360 understanding of social marketing, Idalia launched Idalia Salsamendi INC, is the Director of Business for Chriselle Inc., the host of a podcast, and the co-founder of Jewelry line, LaHavane. Her specialty is creating business models for influencers, giving them clear direction on their careers, and advising them on how to maximize their relationships with fashion houses and beauty brands. With Idalia’s one-on-one consulting, top influencers like Brittany Xavier, Jacey Duprie, Christie Ferrari and Caitlyn Warakomski have taken their personal brands to the next level.