We had the good fortune of connecting with Angela Anderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Angela, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“The grass is greener where you water it.”
This quote has really inspired me to do the best I can with what I have, realizing that happiness only truly comes from within. There will always be challenges, frustrations, setbacks, and failures in life, so ensuring you cultivate what you have is the only way to set yourself up for success in the future. I have found this to be 1000% true in my life and career.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My road to interior design was anything but straight. While I knew I wanted to be in this profession since I was a kid, I opted for a more conventional path – Psychology. A BA and MA in Psych led to a 13 year career in Human Resources and Recruitment/Staffing. But, I always felt a pull to interior design. It was at the beginning of the pandemic last year, when life slowed down and got quiet, that I started to consider making a career change, how I would do it and what it would mean. It was terrifying and one of the hardest things I have ever done. I left a stable career which provided much life stability, to plunge into the unstable and unknown, starting from the bottom again. I started with an online certification course and many hours learning CAD (computer aided design). I loved every bit of it, and fueling the spark kept me pushing through the fear. I offered free design services to my friends and family, talked to many professionals in the industry, and just kept learning. My portfolio started to grow little by little. Working for myself is exhilarating, it is far more stressful than my experience working for an organization as everything relies on me. Building my business has been grueling, working long hours and often times, weekends – but completely worth it. While my brand is still finding it’s way, I’ve focused on complete 1-on-1 client service with consistent communication to help clients through their design challenges. My favorite part is incorporating 3D renderings and e-design – utilizing technology to make design better and easier. Technology has allowed me to render complete floor plans for clients, and I think this combined with my love to create virtual design experiences is a unique factor in my services. The biggest lesson I’ve learned, is that each profession comes with its own set of stressors and issues. Learn to enjoy the ride, always.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love being a Colorado Springs tour guide for friends! I’d take them on a hike to Garden of the Gods in the early morning, followed by breakfast at BonTon’s Cafe in Old Colorado City. We’d make a stop at the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum then lunch at Streetcar 520 in downtown Colorado Springs. Then, we’d have some cosmic bowling fun at the Summit Interquest. On another full day, we’d take the cog-railway up to the top of Pike’s Peak, then explore Manitou Springs afterwards. Dinner spots would include a few of my favorites: Crystal Park Cantina, Prime 25, and Paravincini’s.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Definitely!
My parents for instilling in me that the pursuit of education and continuous learning is the key to growth.
Tony Robbins for the wisdom and tools to live life with passion, contribution & gratitude.
My husband for his unwavering encouragement and support as I transitioned careers and started my own business.
All of the educators and bosses in my life who provided invaluable lessons and opportunities.
Website: www.angelaandersoninteriors.com
Instagram: @angelaandersoninteriors
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelaandersoninteriors/
Image Credits
Joshua Melendez – (for professional headshot)