We had the good fortune of connecting with Elena Sanchez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Elena, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
Fortunately, my career has taught me that establishing a human connection is necessary before I can achieve consistent success. This is why I make it a point to ensure that everyone I interact with feels seen, heard, and valued. I’ve developed successful professional relationships with individuals representing a range of cultures and backgrounds. I overcame my fear of public speaking as a traveling trainer. As a result of my exposure to rigorous panel reviews, I’ve come to understand that preparation is just as important as the actual work.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My insatiable curiosity, strong passion for knowledge, and unending desire for growth are limitless. When I develop an interest in something, I am determined to master it. To provide additional value, I recognize that I must first raise my own bar, which is why I am constantly investing in my personal development. I’ve spent the majority of my career in healthcare, most recently in training and development. It was a no-brainer for me when I first learned about camouflage tattooing/scalp micropigmentation and saw and understood how they interact with healthcare. This was always the natural progression in my quest to assist others.
I chose to pursue certification in scalp micropigmentation and camouflage tattooing, and as I progressed through the courses, the artist-trainer within me awoke. I’ve been trained as a Certified Master Trainer to identify gaps in work processes and training. As I became aware of gaps, my curiosity grew. I began working toward certifications in a variety of fields, including micropigmentation, needlework, inks, and color theory. All of this knowledge, combined with practice and prior bedside experience providing care with a variety of skin types, aided me in developing my own training programs.
This path has not always been easy, but whenever I feel as though things are becoming more difficult, I attempt to step back, assess the big picture, and then put things into context. If all else fails, I’ll take a break and do something I enjoy, such as spending time with my family, exercising, or eating delectable food. Above all, I take time to express my gratitude for the incredible people and love in my life.
One of the best lessons that I’ve learned along the way is the importance of believing in yourself and the greater purpose for which you’re striving. If you believe in yourself, others will begin to believe in you, your story, and your business.
I’d like the world to know that this is the shape of things to come for me. I have barely begun to scratch the surface of what I wish to accomplish. I’m brimming with vitality and positive vibes that I’d like to share with as many people as possible. I want to see many clients live happily ever after with the results of their SMP and Camouflage Tattoos. I’d also like to train others who are interested in making a difference in the world through their artistic abilities. I want to instill in my students the ability to THINK like a true SMP/Camouflage tattoo artist.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d use my studio in Las Colinas as a gathering place for my best friend and some of the truly incredible people I’ve met along the way. Once we were all together, I would begin our evening at The Spirit Grill, which is located directly across the street from my studio. Following that, I’d take everyone on a walking tour of downtown Las Colinas, stopping to admire the Mustangs and strolling through the Mandalay Canal Walks. The following day, I’d make a point of taking my best friend on a horse-and-buggy tour of downtown Dallas. We’d have the horse and buggy drop us off at Klyde Warren Park, stop for a snack at one of the neighborhood shops or vendors, and then head to the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum. Finally, but certainly not least, I would take my friend to Nine Rabbits Bakery in the Korean Trade District to sample some truly delectable Korean coffee.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To begin, I’d like to express my gratitude to my mother, who raised me on her own and instilled in me a strong work ethic. My family, who loves me unconditionally, even when I’m in periods of intense work/studying with little time for play. Erika Martinez is another incredibly talented Scalp Micropigmentation artist who has been extremely supportive of my success and is rooting for me. There are so many wonderful people who have my back, including Mamma Dee of Advanced Teeth Whitening Studio, who has generously shared her years of experience as a business owner and is constantly looking for ways to assist me in becoming more successful.
Website: illusionsbyinkstudio.com
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