Standing out in its industry, MiniLuxe is a nail salon chain on a mission to make the business of self-care cleaner, safer, and more impactful for both their clients and employees. In a recent live Office Hours interview, CEO Zoe Krislock, talked about the challenges and rewards of running a purpose-driven commercial organization—from pandemic pivots to serve MiniLuxe customers at home to meaningful responses when discrimination hit close to home. In a bonus Q&A, Krislock shared how she builds her resilience as a leader.
Self-care & Attitude
What does self-care mean to you?
Self-care to me can be many things…a manicure, a pedicure, a massage, a long walk or waking up slowly. It is an action that gives you time for you to create space to dream, think or relax.
How do you maintain a positive attitude?
I always try to see what is possible and good. Most things in life can be looked at positively or negatively, and I choose positive. It makes me excited about what is possible and offers the optimism and happiness.
Do you have a mindfulness practice? If so, what is it?
I practice gratitude. I take the time each day to think about what I am truly grateful for and think consciously about it.
What do you do to wind down your workday?
I like to cook dinner with a glass of wine and connect with people close to me.
Workspace & Routine
Do you have a workspace at home? Tell us about it.
My office started out pre-pandemic as a place to pay bills and has evolved to a better desk and chair. It is a light and colorful space that has fun mementos from my career journey. I am fortunate to have my mom living at my house, so I benefit by being able to enjoy her homecooked meals.
What do you do to take a break and recharge during your day?
I try to actually take a break for lunch and leave my desk and office. I go outside or into another area of the house. I find getting that break lets me move around and get refreshed to finish the day up.
Time & Organization
How do you keep yourself on track during the day?
I have an app that I use that tracks appointments and daily task from high to low priority, that keeps me up to speed. I will say when it is really busy and crazy, I do revert back to the physical pen and paper to-do list, I like crossing off things that I’ve accomplished. It feels a little more satisfying.
Every Friday afternoon I look at the next week and full month ahead and figure out a ‘work-back list’ of what needs to be done to execute on time and efficiently
How do (or don’t) you separate business tasks from personal ones?
I don’t. The to-do list encompasses it all and my day is collective to getting work and life done.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned or habit you’ve formed to create more balance?
I actually have learned to stop and start my day. Although I might do a little work before or after work, I make a huge effort to not email, call or connect with my team before 8:30 or after 6 if possible.
Mentors
Who do you turn to when you have a problem?
Mostly peers that I have long time connections with and the new CEOs/Founders of businesses I have met since I have joined MiniLuxe. I find that leaders are always willing to support, offer help and advice if you just ask. It is an amazing support system.
What is the best business wisdom you’ve received?
Have faith in yourself and your skills to do what you love and have passion for. It makes every day valuable.
Hacks & Habits
Do you have any daily or weekly rituals you follow?
Every Friday afternoon before I end the day, I look at the next week and full month ahead and figure out a work back list of what needs to be done to execute on time and efficiently. I can then plan the week ahead for my team with time appropriate meetings and tasks.
The Breaks
Can you name a time when something went really wrong? How did you recover? How did it alter your path?
Managing cash to meet strategic goals and investments while balancing the next fundraise is challenging for me. COVID is a great example of this. We had great plans, good momentum and then things changed overnight. Having the discipline to prioritize the strategy, only invest in what really mattered and build the plan to get to the next step was critical.
This interview is part of Office Hours, a series that connects you with entrepreneurs and experts with tips for running and growing a business right now. Find other can’t-miss conversations by visiting our Events page.