Polina Khokholkova shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Polina, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
Both. As a business owner and a mom I am walking on a path of bettering my life in every way. I try to create a certain trajectory for myself to achieve my goals and follow that plan. But sometimes life throws the most unexpected things at us; making us fall off tracks. Once you’re off your path it’s important not to get worried -instead, explore the opportunities that weren’t previously visible before. Wander and find your way back to your plan.. or create a new one.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Polina, I am twenty-one years of age, I am a mother, and the owner of Yorussianails LLC. I started doing nails when I was 16; it all started out as a hobby. Years later my company became my passion, my full time job, and an opportunity for others to learn. Yorussianails specializes in beautifying our clients! Striving for perfection in each nail brought the company a lot of love and respect. Currently, I am working on training my fellow nail techs and help them get started in their new career!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My family, especially my dad and my child’s father. I’ve seen my dad work days and nights to provide for our family. I’ve seen my daughter’s father build a business, lose it all and build it again. Watching that made me realize that anything is possible if you really want it!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Endless times. Life of a business owner (and a mother) is way harder than anyone could ever imagine. Building a company from ground up requires work 24/7 – servicing clients, marketing, restocking, cleaning, managing etc. No one promises you a paycheck – here, your paycheck reflects your hustle. No paid sick days off, no included benefits, and dealing with a toddler. Such pressure got to me many times.. I told myself “I will quit and get a regular job”; I was exhausted. In moments of hopelessness – you need to keep going. My family always supported me and the father of my child had my back when I couldn’t take care of something on my own!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I used to believe that in order to be successful you must work hard. But now I am learning to work smarter, not harder. As a nail tech, I used to do nails for long hours, hurting my back, overbooking and undercharging just to make it work. Later I realized something needs to change… Instead of keeping low prices, I learned new skills that added value to my services and was able to upgrade my prices. Now I get to book a couple of clients per day, charge my worth and grow my business!
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Yes, ironically – most of the things I have now. Over the past few years I always thought I’ll be happy when I make more money, when I get a new car, my own apartment, new office for my business etc. I got every single thing I wanted; every dream came true. I then realized that none of this will truly satisfy me if I won’t be happy in my soul. I started practicing mindfulness, living in present and gratitude because life is more than just chasing the next achievement.
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