Elyse and I worked together for a very brief moment in time. She has the best sense of humor and can pull off cowboy boots with any outfit–seriously. Today she needed a swift kick in the ass so I did what any good friend would do, I gave her one!

…

January 21, 2011

Elyse,

I am going to “talk at you” now. It would probably help if you imagined me in camouflage, SHOUTING, but with a snazzy Tiffany & Co. silver whistle, wink.

You story is just being written. You are incredibly talented, full of spirit and wit. Stop selling yourself short and don’t you dare cheat your dreams on account of fear. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself (obligatory idiom: Rome wasn’t built in a day). You DO have it in you. Start small and always ask for help. Your bosses may not want to see (or help) you succeed, but plenty of us do. Not every work environment is sour and people will pay you what you’re worth. It is scary out there, but you’re brave!

Not to sound all Pollyanna, but life is never straight and narrow. Lean into the curves and remember your happiness is paramount. It’s not about what it will all look like to a stranger, or how much starting over can suck. It’s about you. You and you alone are in charge of your story. And I have a feeling it’s going to be good one.

All done! Now get started! I’m already cheering you on friend! And if you need anything, I’m here.

Love your bossy friend,

Lauren

old school kate spade