Hatch Tribe Hero | Katy Lynch
(Image from Katy)
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur?
Having the freedom to create my own schedule, having a vision and bringing it to life, and building a team and product that I'm proud of.
Why do you think coding/tech are especially important for children (or anyone)?
Kids are growing up in the 'Digital Age', with technology at their fingertips. It's important to set them up early with the technical skills (and life skills!) required to be able to succeed in their ever-changing world.
How do you balance sometimes overwhelming amounts of technology with the other aspects of your life?
With the aid of Google Calendar! My workout schedule, lunch schedule, dates with Craig and my friends are all in there. It's a lifesaver for me because it forces me to "switch off" from work.
What personality trait are you most proud of?
My enthusiasm. I've always been a very charismatic person. I love big, bold ideas and enjoy surrounding myself with people who have great energy. I believe that my positive attitude has contributed to my success.
In one word characterize your life as an entrepreneur.
Thrilling.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Keep putting one foot in front of the other.
(Image from Codeverse)
What sacrifices have you made to be a successful entrepreneur?
Lots. First and foremost, I am miles away from my family, who all live back in Scotland. It's been hard knowing that they are so far away. (Thank goodness for FaceTime and Skype!) Secondly, my social life has taken a hit. Most of my friends go out during the weekends, but I spend much of my time working on the business with the team. Or, just relaxing with Craig.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Take more risks and don't sweat the small stuff.
Where do you find inspiration?
Listening to music, going to Soulcycle, and, funnily enough, watching Pixar movies.
How do you handle fear?
By vocalizing them to my husband! In all seriousness, most fears are completely irrational, and once I open up and actually talk about them, I realize that they are just distracting thoughts. 99% of the time, we worry about things that never amount to anything. It's good to just focus on the important stuff - like family, friendships, our health, and our careers!
What would you do with one extra hour in the day?
Sleep.
What do you love to come home to?
A delicious home-cooked meal. (I don't cook, but Craig is an excellent one!)
(Image from Codeverse)
Name a women entrepreneur past or present you admire, and tell us why.
Sophia Amoruso. She started Nasty Gal at age 22 as an eBay store and grew it into an online fashion empire. Although the company filed for bankruptcy, I really admire her scrappiness, determination, and go-getter attitude. It takes a lot of strength and courage to be able to start a business, fail, and pick yourself back up again.
When did you know your purpose?
When I started my first company, SocialKaty.
What would you say are the top 3 skills needed to be a successful business owner?
Passion, persistence, and focus.
What book has inspired you the most?
I recently finished "My Booky Wook" by Russell Brand. Probably the most gritty, raw book I've read about his turbulent past. He's one of the most brutally honest, witty, self-aware comedians of all time, and I love his rebellious spirit.
In your opinion, what does it take to be a great boss?
It takes empathy, patience, drive, great communication skills, and perseverance.
What lessons did you learn from your best & worst boss?
Lessons learned by my best boss: How to manage my time and leverage my team's skills effectively, how to design and develop processes and set employees up for success, and how to handle difficult situations in the workplace. Lessons learned from my worst boss: Always value and respect the ideas of your employees. Show your executive team that you support them. Trust and empower your team to make decisions.
When you’re not working, what is your favorite way to spend your free time?
Sailing and hanging out with my pup, Yoshimi!
(Image from Katy)