This blog post is loooong overdue! (And after writing this, two whole months have passed…)
I initially thought I would be the first one to start the series and then got caught up with positive replies so I thought I’d left the ‘interview with myself’ for later… And now is the time.
In hindsight, I found the Identity Layers the hardest to write about – although I love talking about myself! If you ask me, I can go on and on…
This series is for me a ways to explore my own identity, the way I think or behave and why others do things differently.
Here’s my honest answers to my Layers.
WARM-UP LAYERS
What’s your rhythm?
I’m naturally a night owl but for a little over a year now, I’ve been waking up at the early hours of day. I now like to call myself an early owl.
Fuel of choice?
Hot chocolate! And my early morning builder’s tea when I’m home (and awake!)
Favourite treat?
I’m not picky, I can do savoury and sweet treats!
Dream day-off?
City streets, all the way!
Workspace vibe?
Background music (generally upbeat) and silence if I have to read or do something involving numbers…
Note-taking style?
Pen + paper
ROOT LAYERS
Thread Layer: Is there a part of your culture or upbringing that still shows up in your work or day-to-day life?
FR: A lot of things… If I had to pick one (or several!) I’d say adaptability, be open to difference, work hard, be patient (still working on that…). That sometimes, you just got to get through it (like in the bear hunt for those who know the children’s book), sometimes there is no quicker way (just get on with it and be patient!).
Home Layer: What food, phrase, or tradition instantly reminds you of home?
FR: So many! I love simple things my grandma did for me after school, ‘patates en robe des champs’ (simple boiled potatoes with bread, butter and a pinch of salt, yum), a simple veg soup. My Lao grandma was an amazing cook too and I absolutely love the sausages (say oua) she made or dry fried meat (sin hèng) with sticky rice (khao nieow). She also made a broth (kèng) which I always had in a small bowl next to my plate as a child.
Belonging Layer: Where do you feel most ‘at home’ – and what makes it feel that way?
FR: I think I had a similar question at my uni interview where I burst into tears at the time. This is still a tough question. This is actually harder to write (or think about) than I thought it would be! I think I’d say where my family is. I will always try to make it ‘my home’ wherever we are. And I had to say a place, I’d say London (love my garden).
IDENTITY LAYERS
Surface Layer: What’s the first impression people usually get of you or your business?
FR: At first, I think I can come across as being quite serious and inflexible (deep down I’m very fun, ah ah…) and my work can seem quite simple and slick.
I can warm up quickly though! I’m decisive in my work, but not rigid. I don’t leave things to chance: every decision is considered, there’s always a reason behind it. I will communicate with my client if I feel what’s been decided is the wrong move. That said, I’m open to changing direction when there’s a stronger case for it, but I care deeply about doing things properly.
Hidden Layer: What’s something that drives you, but people wouldn’t see straight away?
FR: I think what drives me is ‘la satisfaction du travail bien fait’. The responsibility of doing things properly. I think I have a strong sense of responsibility. I care deeply about representing people and their businesses properly. I don’t like shortcuts. I set a high standard for myself because I know my work carries someone else’s name, not just mine. Sometimes I feel I could be a little more relax about things but I don’t think I can! If I see something not quite right, I feel compelled to amend, improve it (even if deep down I know or no one else will see it…).
Growing Layer: What’s a skill, habit, or dream you’re still building into your business or life?
FR: confidence is something I’m still working on – every day. Confidence doesn’t come naturally to me (!) and I’m building it brick by brick (aren’t we all?). I know it will take a lifetime but I can tell there has been progress over the years (there’s hope!).
Glow Layer: What’s something you’re really proud of – big or small?
FR: I’m really proud of my kids (little nod at Delphine I. who replied the same thing for her Layers!) and the progress I’m making in my own business. Building a business takes time, energy and effort (commitment!). And I had to learn all this from scratch, and still learning. Good thing I enjoy learning!
Colour Layer: If your business was a colour, what would it be – and why?
FR: I don’t know. And I’m not sure why I put this question in the questionnaire! I think I find interesting how people see themselves. For me, I’d like to say colourful. And if I had to choose I would say a vibrant yellow. Maybe I’m due to a rebrand, ah ah! (Although I had versions with yellow in the past)
Anchor Layer: If your business had a motto or mantra, what would it be?
FR: Less is more (bearing in mind that sometimes more can be a strong direction too!)
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