If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that meaning is a prerequisite for everything moving forward. From our careers to the brands we buy, we all want to live our lives with substance and invest in companies with purpose. Ashley Lennon is doing just that by turning her personal mission to live a slow and thoughtful life into a business. 

And thousands are joining the SoCal native for the ride. But Peace & Quiet is so much more than a clothing line. Yes, their aesthetic is minimal and cool—they’re a must-follow on Instagram even if you don’t buy their products—but it’s their vision and motivation that compels you to purchase. They are transparent about how and where they make it too. Their post about their fleece program shared details about the garment’s weight, the finish of the fabric, and that it’s exclusively milled and knitted in the U.S. They’re committed to a sustainable and ethical future, so nothing is made without careful thought and consideration for the purpose of the garment first. Now, that is something we can get behind.

Read on to learn more about Lennon’s mission, how they hope to make a difference and push their industry forward, and why you shouldn’t be scared to fail.

How did you make your first dollar and what did that job teach you that still applies today?

I learned about money very early. My parents had given me my first paid chore. My siblings and I would help out around the house and make a small amount of cash. That taught me how rewarding it feels to earn a dollar vs. being handed. 

Take us back to the beginning!

I launched Peace & Quiet a little over a year ago now alongside my Fiancè, Christion. With my background and passion in wellness and Christion—who owns and operates a creative agency—we decided to work on a new project together so it's been a labor of love all the way.  It has always reflected an internal approach.  In a way, a reflection of what is happening in our life and inspired by our travels. We really believe in the importance of slow, thoughtful living.

How do you hope to make a difference with the brand and keep pushing your industry forward? Explain.

The importance of strategic collaborations, partnerships, and community building for us is at an all-time high. Not only does it facilitate our growth, but successful innovation involves more than a great idea. We enjoy collaborating with others to bridge a gap in the market that can be filled. There are countless ways to keep pushing the industry forward. Collaboration is all about progressing as a whole. 

What career or business mistake has given you the biggest lesson?

Thinking my career should be linear and that moving up the corporate ladder was the only way to success. I learned that I wanted more out of life building something for myself because I love the freedom, flexibility, and the discipline it takes to be self sufficient.

2020 presented everybody around the globe with new, unprecedented challenges. How did you #FindNewRoads + switch gears towards your new version of success?

During these turbulent times, many have had to navigate through uncharted waters. Learning how to adapt to change and act quickly has helped me switch gears smoothly. 

Going after what you deserve in life takes confidence and guts. Does confidence come naturally to you or did you have to learn it? What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and going after their dreams?

I had to build up confidence in myself because I was naturally shy when I was young. True confidence is a skillset to be learned. We all get better with time. Confidence is so essential in decision making and the way you interact and relate with other people.

Give yourself permission to dream big. Following your dreams is about visualizing them coming true. Get as clear as you can about it. Visualize what it is that you want to achieve down to what it feels like, tastes like, sounds like. Then, make a plan and put it into action. 

When you separate yourself from your job title and the bells and whistles of your business or career, who are you and what do you like to do?

I’m a mix of a lot of contradictions. I’m both traditional and innovative. I’m both creative and logical. I guess I am 70% introvert, down to earth, free-spirited, and learning to enjoy the simple things in life.

For those who haven’t started a business (or are about to) what advice do you have? 

Most people don’t achieve their dreams because they overthink and underact. The thing is, you have to go for it. You have to face your fears and insecurities. Don't be scared to try. Don't be scared to fail. Be scared not to grow. 

What is the biggest mistake entrepreneurs make with money early on? Can you share a piece of financial advice? 

The biggest mistake is thinking every dollar coming in is profit. My advice? Only pocket/spend half of half. Save the rest. 

It’s easy to celebrate the wins, but how do you handle failure or when something hasn’t worked out for you?

I’ve learned to be comfortable taking responsibility for my shortcomings. My approach is to find out what I could change to avoid similar circumstances in the future. However, being able to win and lose gracefully is still a mentality that might be beneficial to cultivate.

With success comes opportunity, but that also means you have your hands full. What keeps you inspired and motivated to keep going even on your most challenging days?  

My spiritual practice is fuel to keep me in alignment with where I need to put my focus on. It keeps me grounded and ready to take on even the most challenging times.  

What's the one productivity tip or work hack that truly changed your life?

WFH has its perks but to keep a healthy work/life balance, I designate my working hours on a schedule and I try to stick to it. 

What is the #1 book you always recommend and why?

Outliers. Interesting to read the stories of how various people came to success.

If you could go back to the beginning of your career journey—with the knowledge you have now— what advice would you give yourself? 

Recognize that this thing you’re about to do is scary, know the feeling and acknowledge that it’s valid. And then channel bravery and move forward.

Fill in the blanks:

When I feel fear, I…
Relax.

The best career advice I always give is…
Have a path, but be flexible.

To be successful, you need to be…
Able to grow your mindset and learn new skills.

I turn bad days around by…
Indulge in a little “me time.”

If there were more hours in the day, I would…
Daydream just a little bit longer.