Career Confidential: Leeana Provan

Full name?: Leeana Provan

Position / Job title?: Owner of LoveLeeSoaps

1. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I have been crafting ever since I can remember and I come from a family of creative entrepreneurs. Growing up I always knew I wanted to do something with art and follow in my parents footsteps to create a business of my own.

2. Fast-forward several years/decades. How did you land (or create) your current position?

I started out by helping my mother with her online Etsy shop, WildOliveKids, and she kept pushing me to start an Etsy shop with my bath and body products. She didn’t tell me that it would take over my life (and her house). I think she’s having second thoughts now.

3. What is the single most important piece of advice you would give to other career-minded women?

Never give up. All things are possible. Its definitely true that when one door closes another one opens but only if you think positive and make it happen. If something is not working, figure out how to change things so it does work. You really have to live and breathe whatever your passion is.

 

4. Let’s talk about work/life balance. What does that mean to you? Is it important?

This is very important to me. When I first started my own business this was a huge struggle. It was especially hard because my business and home were the same place so I had to learn when to shut one off and transition into the other. It took a long time to find the right balance between them. I found that being extremely organized and sticking to a strict schedule is key to keeping the right balance between both.

5. Do you have any career role models? Who are they?

Mom. She did everything she could to create a career that allowed her to stay home and spend as much time as she possible could with her children. I have never seen anyone work as hard as she has.

6. What is the best piece of advice that you have ever received – career-related or otherwise?

Stay focused, be dedicated, and willing to sacrifice. Most importantly, you must learn from your mistakes and feedback from others is golden. By having the drive to succeed, and keeping a positive outlook, you can accomplish anything.

7. Should you work for the money, or do what you love?

Both! I started making soap as a hobby and as it evolved into a business my passion for soapmaking never faded away. The best feeling is waking up and being excited to go to work everyday.