Crystal Gonzales on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Crystal Gonzales and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Being a business owner can definitely feel all consuming so I like to take time to be present. Whether that looks like talking a walk or joining a meditation class, I like to make sure that I take the time to connect and be present with myself and my family members.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I started this business out of a love of creating something that I could put on my own kids. Every design is inspired by my kids and their likes and hobbies. I decided to go into the space of children’s clothing to connect to other moms and that’s something I’ve been able to do with M. & Wally. It’s not just about clothing, it’s been about creating a community while doing something I love.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Creating a business was not something that I would have ever thought I could do growing up. I always thought that as soon as we were able to get a job, that’s what I needed to do, that was what was expected of me. Creating this business has proven that I’m able to do anything I set my mind to and really anything is possible as I believe in myself.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear of failing has definitely held me back in pursuing things in life. However, I’ve realized that failing is not real, it’s something our mind has made up. There is no such thing. Could you try something and it not work out? Sure. But how could you really know unless you try? We are our own biggest judges and enemies. No one will ever fault you for trying and nor should they. Life is a series of trying and experiencing so I always say don’t ever let fear be a factor because it doesn’t exist, only YOU can make it real.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I’m not sure that “smart” people are getting it wrong per se. But I will say that I believe that we have to stop thinking so much logically and realize that people value and connect to authenticity, emotions, and feelings. So while you could have it all right from a marketing, numbers, logical standpoint…it means nothing if it doesn’t come from a genuine space.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Worrying or having fear to try. I think it’s easy to forget our time is not unlimited here so we need to just enjoy our loved ones and be fearless in experiencing it all.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mandwally.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandwally/?hl=en