Director - NWD Design and Build, Writer and Blogger
Two years ago Maria sold her beauty business and started a construction company. Maria is now an ambassador for Australia’s largest meeting of women in construction at the Sydney Build Expo.
Transitioning from the most female-dominated industry to one of the most male-dominated, Maria gives us her answers to thriving.
The ‘Answers to Thriving' is an interview series that takes a look at the women who have created a life of self-success. We uncover key moments, lessons and habits that have influenced the life they lead today.
You can’t start the day without:
A quick 5 minute meditation, followed by a cup of coffee.
A favourite quote is:
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit (Will Durant).
One wellness ritual you do regularly:
Yoga - It is something I do at least 6 times a week, often twice a day. It keeps me grounded, focused and mentally strong.
The last podcast that inspired you?
Oprah's SuperSoul Conversations with John Mackey: Conscious Capitalism. An inspiring story of when you follow your heart and bliss, rather than what society, family, friends think you should do, you can create something wonderful and meaningful.
A recommended read for personal growth:
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. It's an oldie but a goodie, reminding us that mindset is the key to success.
How do you go about self development?
Forming positive habits and making sure I schedule time in to read, listen to podcasts, meditate and go to yoga class. I see myself as a student of life, always learning and continually pushing myself to grow and be better than I was yesterday.
Which business or person inspires you right now and why?
Gary Vee - Not only is he successful and motivating, I also find him so relevant in today's business climate. He often gives practical advice and I admire his no-nonsense approach to life and business.
What has been the most defining moment in your career to date?
Starting my first business at 26 years old. I quit my job and opened a laser clinic. I had absolutely no experience in beauty or in business and had to learn everything myself. It threw me in the deep end but what I gained was a wealth of knowledge and experience that no corporate role or university could have ever provided me.
Who’s helped you progress the most in your career and what do they do to support you?
My partner Neil as he has supported me to find my passion through work. When I met Neil I still had my first business. Since then he has supported me working 6 days a week, selling my business, being unemployed, working in corporate and changing careers. We work so well together as a couple that we now are business partners and are running a successful business.
It threw me in the deep end but what I gained was a wealth of knowledge and experience that no corporate role or university could have ever provided me.
A fear you've had to overcome to pursue your ambitions:
Social anxiety. I still struggle with this fear at times however, I live by the mantra of 'feel the fear and do it anyway'. I know that pushing through that fear usually leads to growth and progress, so I focus on the end-result rather than the current discomfort.
An achievement you're most proud of:
I always wanted to write but was too scared to publish my work in fear of being ridiculed. Last year I faced my fear and wrote my first article which went viral. Within six months I have published 14 articles which have been viewed, liked, commented and shared well over 100,000 times. Many people have reached out to tell me I have inspired them. My goal in life is to be an inspiration to others and I am so proud that I am achieving that through my writing.
I always wanted to write but was too scared to publish my work in fear of being ridiculed. Last year I faced my fear and wrote my first article which went viral.
Life/career advice you wish you'd been given in your early 20s:
Mindset is everything. If you can believe it, you can achieve it. Find what you love to do and follow your bliss. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and don't settle for second best. Work hard every day to create the best version of yourself and don't forget to enjoy this crazy ride called life.
For women who want to make a positive change in their life but don't know where to start, what advice would you give them?
Get clear on what your goals and dreams are. You need something to work towards and know where you are going - and don't forget to dream big! Write it down and take action, even if it's small steps. Remember, you become what you do repeatedly, so form daily habits and rituals that bring you closer to your goals and dreams.
What does thriving mean to you?
Living my best life and creating the best version of myself. For me that means that I am healthy - both physically and mentally, I have meaningful relationships, I am passionate about my work, giving back to society and living by my tag line: Aspiring to inspire.
Form daily habits and rituals that bring you closer to your goals and dreams.
Anything else you would like to share with the Thrivhers community?
For daily posts -
Follow me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-antwan
Follow me on Instagram: @mariaantwan
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