MILLENNY Woman Of The Month · Dec 30, 2019

MILLENNY WOMAN OF THE MONTH - Asia Faoro

"The universe's timing is perfect, even if it doesn't suit your ego".
It's my reminder in times of doubt and frustration that life is unfolding exactly the way it needs to - Asia.

This is the last month of this decade and we are pleased to introduce you to this multi-passionate solopreneur who's a big believer in pursuing what sets your soul on fire and being stubborn about your goals.

Tell us a little bit about your self and what do you do?
I run Dreams to Plans Creative, which is one part boutique social media agency and one part lifestyle design blog.

What do you think are the pros and cons of being solopreneur these days?
Being a solopreneur has simultaneously been the most challenging and rewarding thing I've ever done. Pros: We live in a digital world with abundant amounts of information at our fingertips. Whether it's another language, software or a skillset, we can learn practically anything at the touch of a button - many times even for free! The Internet allows us, as entrepreneurs, to be visible and connect with prospective clients at a larger scale than ever before which is powerful. The opportunities are vast; limitless, even. On the flip side, working FOR and BY yourself has its' fair share of challenges, too.

One of the most difficult parts for me was the isolation and I don't feel that it's a topic we solopreneurs speak about often enough. When you go from being surrounded by people in an office to working by yourself from your home, it's a huge adjustment and the constant alone time can get to your head. I began working in coffee shops, coworking spaces and/or with other freelancing friends just to be around others, which definitely helped. Another con is that everything falls back on you - You must wear a lot of hats. You become your business's bookkeeper, marketer, and salesperson seemingly overnight. While empowering for some, it can be incredibly overwhelming for others. When I'm speaking with people interested in going the self-employed route, I always make sure they know about the massive amounts of responsibility they're taking on beforehand so they can make the most informed decision for themself.

What tips do you have for other women who would like to become solopreneurs?
Don't give up. Don't take anything personally. And don't take no for an answer. Wise words from Sophia Amoruso that I've carried with me throughout my entrepreneurial journey.

What has been your proudest moment to date?
What is the next big thing you want to accomplish? My proudest moment to date was quitting my job and backpacking through Australia in 2015. It was my biggest bucket list check and a lifelong dream, which is what ultimately led me to launch a business of my own and name it "Dreams to Plans".

Who inspires you the most?
My husband, Tyler. He is - hands down - the most optimistic, supportive, rose-colored person I have ever known. When I decided I wanted to launch a business, he went out and purchased me a new computer to work from and a ticket to an industry conference. He inspires me to wake up each morning and be better than I was the day before.

What are some skills that you think everyone should learn?
And what skills would you love to learn if money and time were not an issue? Everyone should master the skill of self-discipline. As for me, I would really love to delve in deeper to learn about User Experience (UX) and fully plan to once I can set aside the time to devote to it.

If you could have an all-expenses-paid trip to see any famous world monument, which monument would you choose and why
Mount Fuji in Japan! I’ve always been drawn to Mt. Fuji - It is such an iconic view when you think of Japan! And beautiful, too :)

What have you recently become obsessed with?
A virtual coworking platform called Focusmate - It's done wonders for my productivity.

As it's Christmas time, what's your favorite Chrismas Tradition and do you have any traditions of your own?
I live far from my family so my Christmas tradition is to travel back "home" to Florida to spend time with them.

What's in your MILLENNY bag?
I always keep my blue blocker glasses, a pretty notebook + pen, my wallet, iPhone, essential oil rollers, and laptop in my MILLENNY bag.