1. Your message to kids today that you wish you knew back then what you currently know now. Be specific.

I wish I had known that life was a journey, and each year, you are adding layers in the design process. You don’t have to have it “all figured out” and if you think you do, you’re holding yourself back from learning and growing, as curiosity is the main ingredient of the acquisition of knowledge. Hold yourself accountable, without judging yourself, and remember that just because you don’t understand something, doesn’t make it “wrong” or irrelevant. Our lives are a gift created especially for us, and we can unwrap and wear it however we see best.

2. How did you learn your lesson or what was your lesson? Did you get hurt, did you upset someone, did you get scared?

I have not had the easiest life compared to many others in my social and professional circles, but everything changed when I stopped looking through the eyes of a victim and allowed myself to be proud of myself for not only surviving the things that have hurt me, but thriving. My relationships also flourished as a result.

3. What you would have done differently back then if you could turn back time.

I would have trusted myself that I could handle anything that came my way and would be OK because I was capable of taking care of myself. I would have reminded myself that being on your own is different from being alone.

4. Do you convey this message to children in your life today?

I run a mentorship/Internship and have many young women in my life that I work very hard to help, not only professionally, but personally. I don’t assume that I know what is “right” for them, but they seem to appreciate my sharing what I have known, my contacts and my guidance, and just assuring them that they are right on track, even when they feel totally lost.

– Brenda Della Casa: Website Walking Barefoot, Director of Online Content & Community at Preston Bailey Designs.