We had the good fortune of connecting with Asta Luster and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Asta, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I live by the quote “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. ” It gets tough sometimes and most of us want to quit, but it’s important to understand your goals and what’s at stake. When you own a business, you’re responsible for your people and they need you to be a leader. When I get those moments, first I go for a long walk with my dogs, and instead of fear letting control me I find something I’m grateful for in this situation. It helps fear to disappear. Then I revisit my goals and values and set up a new action plan. Sounds easier writing it then doing it, but I promise you – it works. Keep going is the ONLY option.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m award winning hairstylist, educator for Eufora International and a founder of Luster Hair Lounge. A very unique salon in Austin Texas. Our mission is to make everyone who comes in, to feel like home, comfortable, at ease, feel heard and cared for. What sets us apart – we are hair doctors, our job is to solve all your hair problems and find the right style for you while educating step by step how to maintain your hair health at home. Our goal is to give you all the tools to take care of your hair and skin and hopefully inspire you by focusing on beauty, health and body and spirit wellness. We will be celebrating 6 years in September. In those 6 years I overcame lots of challenges and difficulties : health issues (breaking collar bone and not able to work or be there for my team), long financially and emotionally draining divorce, burglary, theft, losing great and bad employees, broken trust and lots of more to list. All this taught me lots of great lessons and I’m grateful for all of them. There were moments that the only reason I kept going was believing in my vision that I can grow a successful team and create an environment where hairstylists are looking forward not just to work but build a dream career and our guests finding a relaxing second home from home. Also implementing consistent steps in our daily routine, so no matter how you feel that day, you can be at your best professionally and help the people around you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I looove Austin! I love outdoor activities, hiking with my 3 dogs. My favorites are Turkey Creek, Barton Springs greenbelt, Walnut creek. Running around Lady Bird Lake or kayaking, paddle boarding on it. I love finding a new local restaurants, like Arpeggio grill if you like Mediterranean, middle eastern food, Bouldin Creek cafe, Honest Mary’s, Mothers Cafe if you like vegetarian. Definitely Lick Honest Ice cream!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Angie Lund, my business mentor and a life coach

Website: www.lusterhairlounge.com
Instagram: Lusterhairlounge
Facebook: Luster Hair Lounge
Yelp: Luster Hair Lounge

Image Credits
Photographer Babak Aryan Photographer Alejandro Perales

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