lash artists getting anxiety: Conquering Anxiety for Lash Artists and Estheticians

The world of beauty and aesthetics is a realm of creativity, self-expression, and client satisfaction. As a lash artist and esthetician, your hands craft transformations that boost confidence and radiance. However, behind the scenes, the beauty industry can also be demanding and stressful, leading to anxiety for many beauty professionals, including myself. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies to overcome anxiety and thrive in your role as a lash artist and esthetician. I promise it will get better and we can learn to leverage the anxiety to our advantage and not let it ruin our dreams!

My Own Story As A Lash Artist

Becoming a lash artist has changed my life! It's helped me to grow in so many ways and has definitely pushed me to my limits. I started lashing back in 2017. I had been a stay at home mom for over 10 years and I knew I needed something to get me out of the house, I wanted to make new friends, I wanted to make my own money, so I decided to become a lash artist! I had no idea the anxiety this was going to create for me! I was a lash artist getting anxiety!I literally got to the point where I couldn't finish a lash set and I even passed out at one point......so embarrassing! I had to quite lashing for a few months. It was awful. I felt like I had failed and I would never be able to function again. It took some time, some therapy:), and slowly I was able to start lashing again! Since then, I've been able to completely recover and at one point was seeing 8 to 9 clients a day!! I was crushing it! Now, I've learned a good balance and have never felt more content and in control of my emotions. Here is what helped me and I want to share it with you! Also, if you resonate with my story, Join The Exclusive Money Making Lash Artist group for more support from other Anxiety prone lash artists!

Understanding the Beauty Industry's Unique Stressors

Before we dive into strategies that help overcome anxiety, it's crucial to recognize the specific stressors and triggers that us lash artists and estheticians often face:

1. Client Expectations: Meeting client expectations and creating flawless results can be pressure-filled.

2. Time Management: Managing appointments, accommodating last-minute requests, and maintaining a tight schedule can be challenging.

3. Client Relations: Dealing with diverse personalities and addressing client concerns can be emotionally taxing.

4. Perfectionism: The pursuit of perfection in your work can lead to self-imposed stress.

5. Staying Current: The beauty industry is constantly evolving, requiring professionals to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques.

6. Worrying: Worrying too much about what other people think!

Now that we've covered the array of reasons why lash artists and estheticians are prone to extreme anxiety and sometimes even panic attacks, lets go over some of the top ways to still flourish and succeed as a lash artist and esthetician!

Self-Care for Lash Artists and Estheticians

Self-care is essential for managing anxiety and maintaining your well-being. Incorporate these practices into your routine:

1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for your work hours and personal time. Avoid overbooking and burnout. Being successful as a lash artist and esthetician does not mean that your books need to be full! It's more impressive when you can learn to put yourself and your time first and not let others control your life and schedule. I'm going to say it again...being successful does not mean that your books need to be full!

2. Mindful Breathing: Take short breaks between appointments to practice deep breathing exercises. This can help calm your nerves and refocus your energy. Also, don't fight against the anxiety. The more you resist, the more it persists. Breath into it, allow it, and trust all things will work together for your good.....even if you pass out and pee your pants, learn to not care and to know and trust that all things eventually will work together for your good, even the so called "bad and embarrassing things".

3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity is a great stress reliever. Consider incorporating yoga, Pilates, taking walks or any form of exercise you enjoy into your routine.

4. Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with a balanced diet. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, as they can exacerbate anxiety. Be sure to eat before you go to work! Bananas are a great snack, high in potassium and they help prevent anxiety....just be sure to brush your teeth so you don't breath banana breath in your clients face🌟

5. Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest to recharge your energy and improve your mood.

6. Building a Support System

Anxiety can feel isolating, but remember you're not alone. Really, you are not alone🌺Seek support from various sources:

7. Peer Network: Connect with fellow lash artists and estheticians for camaraderie and advice-sharing. Online forums and local industry events are excellent opportunities.

8. Mentorship: Consider finding a mentor who has experience in managing anxiety in the beauty industry, like me! Join my Exclusive Money Making Lash Artist Group! We can provide valuable insights and guidance.

9. Therapy: If anxiety is significantly affecting your life and work, consider therapy or counseling. A mental health professional can help you develop coping strategies. And don't be ashamed! Many of us have benefited from therapy and sometimes medication:)

Cultivating Confidence

Confidence plays a significant role in reducing anxiety. Here's how to build and maintain confidence in your profession:

1. Continued Education: Invest in ongoing education and training to stay at the top of your game. The more confident you are in your skills, the less anxious you'll feel. Check out some of my online Courses Here!

2. Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-talk and imposter syndrome by consciously replacing them with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your successes and capabilities. Be nice and patient with your self. Don't say anything to your self that you would never say to someone else's face. Be your own biggest cheerleader!

3. Visualize Success: Before appointments, take a moment to visualize successful outcomes. This positive imagery can boost your confidence and results!

Coping with Client-Related Anxiety

I get it, I've been there! Client interactions can be a significant source of anxiety. Here's how to navigate them more comfortably:

1. Active Listening: Practice active listening to better understand your clients' needs and concerns. This will help you provide a more personalized service and build rapport.

2. Empathy: Empathize with your clients' feelings. Remember that they may be anxious too, and your empathy can go a long way in making them feel comfortable. Believe it or not, your anxiety is making you a much more sympathtic, and kind person. You will be able to relate more to your clients and their struggles, making you a top notch lash artist and esthetician. Not just for your skills but how you can make people feel comfortable around you.

3. Conflict Resolution: Develop conflict resolution skills to address client issues calmly and professionally. A well-handled conflict can lead to a stronger client relationship.

Stress Reduction Techniques

In the midst of a hectic day, you can employ stress reduction techniques to ease anxiety:

1. Aromatherapy: Consider incorporating calming scents like lavender or chamomile into your workspace, aaaah it's the best:)

2. Meditation and Mindfulness: Spend a few minutes in quiet meditation or practice mindfulness to stay present and centered.

3. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Learn and utilize progressive muscle relaxation techniques to release physical tension.

The Power of Time Management

Efficient time management can significantly reduce anxiety. Here's how to master it:

1. Online Booking Systems: Implement online booking systems to manage your schedule effectively and avoid double bookings. There's many free booking systems out there! I use Square. It's free and it sends text reminders as well.

2. Buffer Time: Schedule buffer time between appointments to allow for any unforeseen delays and to recharge.

3. Prioritize Tasks: Create a daily to-do list and prioritize tasks. Focus on what's most important to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Embracing Imperfection

The pursuit of perfection can be a significant source of anxiety for lash artists and estheticians. It's essential to remember:

1. Mistakes Happen: Understand that mistakes are a part of any profession. Use them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Any successful lash artist and esthetician has made many mistakes along the way, in fact, I burned a butt hole pretty good trying to learn Brazilian waxing...;mistakes happen to everyone! The trick is to accept that it is just part of the process and to keep moving forward, and to learn from mistakes...like don't burn butt holes:)

2. Learning Experience: Like just mentioned, Treat each client interaction as a learning experience. Your journey as a professional includes ups and downs.

Seeking Professional Help for Anxiety

If your anxiety is severe and negatively impacting your work and personal life, it may be time to seek professional help, that's what I did and it was the best thing I'd ever done!

1. Therapy or Counseling: Consult with a mental health professional who can provide strategies and support tailored to your situation.

2. Medication: In some cases, medication prescribed by a healthcare provider may be necessary to manage anxiety symptoms effectively.

Thriving as a Lash Artist and Esthetician

Anxiety may be a familiar companion in the beauty industry, but it doesn't have to define your career. By implementing self-care practices, building a support system, cultivating confidence, and developing coping strategies, you can overcome anxiety and thrive as a lash artist and esthetician. Remember that you have the power to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

Your journey in the beauty industry is a creative and fulfilling one, and with the right tools, you can navigate it with confidence and grace. Love you! You're not alone!