We had the good fortune of connecting with Mim Na Chiangmai and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mim, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking: how do you think about risk, what role has taking risks played in your life/career?

My definition of risk is the “unknown.” It is normal to have fears around the unknown because you have never been there before. It’s your ego that wants to keep you safe, because the ego has evidence that you’ve been doing pretty “okay.” You are still “alive” by doing the exact same thing you have been doing, so having fears around risk is a good thing. It’s the first actualization to step into the unknown which is infinite possibilities.

I used to have so much fear around it and used to be afraid to take risks. But once I understood that it is here to help me grow and evolve, I had to start trusting the process of the unknown and knowing that you will be loved, guided and supported at all times. And when that knowing arises within me, it might feel scary, yet exciting and aligned. Then I consciously CHOOSE to take risk and allow the magic to unfold.

Taking risks has changed my life completely. I have been manifesting the most magical things in my life and career; Being able to launch my business full-time, being surrounded by amazing people who have a similar vision, and living in an expansive environment.

When you take risks, you welcome a newer version of you. When you take risks, you let go of what’s no longer serving you.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets you apart from others?

Creating handmade clothing that is super unique while adding a taste of South East Asian culture with my mom as the head seamstress – That sets Soulzential apart from others.

What you are most proud of or excited about?

I’m the most proud of how fast Soulzential has become the brand it is today, since I decide to take her on this journey full time last year.

How did you get to where you are today business-wise.

It all started with my self-discovery journey and doing the inner-work. Moment after moment when you are about to make a decision about your business and you ask whether it is empowering or disempowering. I also started to develop a relationship with my business, as if she has her own entity and we’re creating this together. A lot of times when I start to compare myself to others, I remember that we are a team and that there is no rush in the process so I can focus on staying in my lane.

Was it easy?

No, it’s probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Running my own business has revealed everything that holds me back from becoming the best version of myself, and it’s something I have to work through. Fears and the unknown often show up, as well as a lot of triggers that take me out of alignment.

How did I overcome them?

Meditation. It is the most profound technique and I find it every useful. Also slowing down works like magic. When challenges arise, I stop my mind from searching for a solution, and instead, I slow down my nervous system to be in a receptive mode. Sometimes challenges can come in a form of, “when an expectation isn’t met and I get frustrated”, if that happens, I sit with the emotion, feel the feelings, and then ask myself, “how can I learn from this?”

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?

I learned to trust the process. To trust that I will always be loved and supported. Learn to drop the need of control. Learn to be more patient. Work with your brand to expand together.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

I’m truly honored that you have chosen to support my passion as well as the small team of women who handmade our items with love + care from my hometown in Chiangmai, Thailand. As we are evolving, our mission is to create a positive impact on our environment and provide jobs for local families. We aim for integrity and long term sustainability for a better + cleaner future.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Since I’m Libra sun and Sagittarius rising, they would definitely have a good time!

San Diego – La Jolla. Kayaking, seal watching and Ramen at Harumama

San Diego – Hike at Torrey Pines then lunch in Little Italy

Encinitas / Carlsbad – Coffee at Better Buzz, walk around Meditation Gardens, go to the beach at Swamis or Moonlight, dinner at Campfire then walk to the beach to watch the sunset

Encinitas – Yoga and sound bath healing classes at Soul of Yoga

Joshua Tree National Park

Temecula – Wine Tasting experience

Laguna – Picnic at Victoria Beach or Treasure Island Beach, then dinner at Nick’s and gelato for dessert

Venice – Venice Canals, Lunch at Erewhon , Ice cream at Salt and Straw, visit the shops in Abbot Kinney then dinner at The Butcher’s Daughter

Los Angeles – Brunch and Stroll around in Larchmont then Jeni’s ice cream in Silver Lake. Dinner at Openair

Los Angeles – Sunset hike at Runyon Canyon and dinner at Leo’s taco truck. Make sure to get al pastor!

So by the end of the trip, they probably are going to gain 5-10 lbs lol

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom, hands down. She is a single mom who is welcoming life with strength, grace and love. I had the vision of Soulzentail in my mind, but it couldn’t come to life without an expert seamstress. I knew instantly that there was nothing more exciting than creating this business with her and supporting her passion. We still have a long way to go, but Soulzential wouldn’t be here today without her. Thank you so much mom for helping me with everything! I love you so much!

Website: www.soulzential.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/soulzential

Image Credits
Thakitphat Boonrit

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.