Overcomer Series with Yadira Torres
What do you do?
I’m a barre babe (fitness class) aficionado, dog loving, independent Latina in field sales! I work full time, go to class, make home cooked meals every night, and binge Netflix shows with my boyfriend. I’m a strong advocate for girls and women seeking to find their passions and inner beauty!
Growing up, did you always dream that you would be doing what you’re doing now?
No, I had no idea that my dreams were much bigger than what I had set out for myself. I’ve been blessed with a supportive family who has helped me become the resilient person that I am today. I always worried about money, and worked several jobs to help get through school at UT Austin. I taught myself how to cook my Freshman year, while living in a dorm, to save money while still eating healthy. Now that I’ve made it into the real world, it feels so good to be able to take care of my family and still have a work life balance.
What made you decide to “go for it” in terms of your career goals/ambitions?
My parents immigrated from Mexico and as a first generation American, I always felt indebted to them as their eldest child to secure their future along with mine. It’s a huge burden “first generation” kids all feel, but it’s necessary to honor the sacrifices they made by leaving their home country. I unexpectedly lost my father my junior year of high school, which really set a fire inside of me to work harder than anyone else. It’s paid off, and I try to honor him in everything I do. I also have a little sister who looks up to me, we are 12 years apart, and I strive to be the positive role model for her that I never had.
Did you face adversity? How did you overcome that?
Always, and I still do. I’m a young Latina who only makes 55 cents to every dollar a male makes. Money has always been something my family needed, so I try to outshine any one who tries to get in my way. I have my own personal struggles, but I make the best out of every situation and bring a positive attitude everywhere I go. My very emotional story is published on my blog She Will Say.
A lot of women have these big goals & big ideas that they’d like to bring to life. What advice would you give them in terms of how they can make that happen?
Set realistic goals and timelines! That’s the only way to make a dream a reality! Surround yourself with strong women and have a support system, you will need them for those hard days. And if you need to cry, cry it out, but then get back to work!
What’s the biggest regret you have when it comes to your blog/shop/business?
I wish I had started sooner! Friends and family always asked me to start something like this, I have so many ideas and I love having an outlet to share a piece of my life and culture with others!
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Finding the true meaning of inner beauty! I’m addicted to Sephora, I’m a girl’s girl, and I love makeup! But that’s just fun for me, I can leave the house without a drop of makeup on and still feel beautiful! I can go to the gym and sweat it all out and leave radiating with confidence. It’s taken a long time, but I’m happy with the body God gave me – even with its imperfections.
And, just because we like our coffee around here, how do you take yours?
Tall, dark, and sweet! Espresso with steamed frothy milk!
I believe in the story of the overcomer. That has been my story and I believe that is your story too. We want your journey here on the blog to help encourage others just like you and me. If you’d like to share that with us, please come over and share your story with us!
Was this story an encouragement to you? Share it with others!