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Kris Carr

Abundance

How Your Side Hustle Can Become Your Career (Tips from the Trenches!)

Hiya Gorgeous,

If you’ve ever felt the tug to step into a new career that aligns with your heart, this interview is for you.

When I met Lucy Sherwood, I knew that I had to share her story with my treasured readers. I know so many of you yearn to follow your dreams, and I hope Lucy’s story inspires you to do just that.

I can certainly relate to the leap of faith she took (you’ll learn all about it through our conversation below). When I was diagnosed with cancer over a decade ago, I quit my job, sold my apartment and went on a healing adventure. That was the beginning of all things Crazy Sexy. It was a major risk, and it was scary at times, but it was one hundred percent right for me.

Lucy took a leap of faith and left a stable career in law to pursue her passions for design and creating beauty in the world. In 2014, she founded Rock and Raw, a London-based ethical jewelry company that aims to make the finest products for spiritual warriors, wonderers and wanderers alike.

Lucy Sherwood Kris Carr

So, without further ado, let’s get down to business and learn how Lucy turned her dream into her career…

Kris: You had a job as a lawyer before pursuing your passion. What was your experience moving from that world to creating your own business? What did you have to overcome?

Lucy: The truth is, leaving my job was relatively easy. When you follow your heart and your passion, life tends to just flow. But yes, I was in a place that I felt was safe. I was ambitious, pursuing a career in law and making my parents proud… but I also felt like this was not my true calling—like I should be somewhere else. I could feel my life slipping away on my computer screen or in my law textbooks, so I started to listen to that voice a little more. I meditated, I practiced yoga and I enrolled in various arts and crafts courses.

I left my job having sold only two pieces of jewelry to friends of friends. And yet on that same day, the Four Seasons Hotel Group asked if I could stock two of their hotels.

A few weeks later, we were asked if we could come to the Oscars to gift our jewelry to celebrities. We couldn’t—I didn’t have the budget, and I certainly didn’t have the capacity, but I was getting some pretty big signs that this was what I was meant to be doing.

Kris: What advice would you give to your former self now that you know how successful you’ve become as an entrepreneur?

Lucy: I don’t think of myself as a successful entrepreneur. I don’t think I can be that reflective—yet. I am still so much in the thick of it. But, the answer is trust. Believe in yourself. If I’d known how the business would blossom, I’d never have doubted myself or it.

My current self-advice is to look after myself. You are the beginning and the end of your business—its center and its edges. Meditation, yoga, self-care, healthy eating and rest. When I’m rested and happy, everything flows smoothly. When I’m tired and stressed, everything is difficult.

Kris: How has pursuing your passion changed your creative life?

Lucy: I’ve always been creative. When I was little, I wanted to make things from scrap. We had a craft box at home full of toilet paper rolls, pipe cleaners and old cardboard—I loved it. At school, we were asked what we would take to the moon, and I said, “The craft box!”. And, my teacher wouldn’t have it. She said, “Don’t you want something fun, like a toy?”. I replied, “No way! Let me make stuff!”.

It is a privilege that I get to do this as a job. I feel on the verge of tears thinking about it. I get to create something every day. It makes my life a lot easier, in many ways, because I’m using my natural skills. Using your gifts, especially those that you have developed and honed over the years, is one of the most life-changing things you can do.

Kris: What makes your jewelry so different?

Lucy: When I make jewelry, I am being called to create something really beautiful and really meaningful. It has to be stunning. I think jewelry is so intimate. It’s your talisman and your armour. It’s how you go out into the world—your intention.

With meditation, I developed this amazing sacred practice. With my jewelry, I could take that vibration everywhere. That feeling you get from a three hour workshop, or from your own morning meditation, you can carry in a crystal, in a beautiful form. I love it.

Kris: I want to know about the stones used in your jewelry. What do you experience while working with them?

Lucy: You get drawn toward different stones. When I needed grounding, I was drawn to the deep, dark stones, and that’s where the Ultimate Guardian Labrodite Pendant came from—my need to be earthed. I am drawn to amethyst when I need healing. If I need elevating, I go to diamonds. And, as you can see, I draw inspiration from my own life.

Crystals are a personal journey. The meanings that different pieces carry can vary for everyone. We use the finest crystals, and they are hand-carved by our own cutters. It’s a privilege to support them, and I think those relationships are part of our jewelry. The pieces are more beautiful because they represent our energies and commitment to ethical living.

Kris: You told me that you breathe intention into every stone you work with and so does your team. What does that look like?

Lucy: We hold an intention-setting meditation ceremony. We work with energy in practices similar to reiki and sound healing. We focus the specific intention and feeling we’ve raised into that crystal, charging it with high vibes. It’s beautiful knowing how much the customers enjoy receiving the energy we’re offering.

Once we’ve charged the crystals with their intentions, we send them out with a beautiful hand written mantra. For example:

I surrender my fear
I trust
I surrender my worry
I have faith
I am supported

We can charge your crystal according to your needs and your circumstances—same with the mantra. We want your piece to be you: to reflect your victories, your progress and your beliefs.

Kris: What’s one nugget of advice you could give an entrepreneur on the verge of leaping into building their own business?

Lucy: It’ll be the most amazing thing you’ll ever do: challenging, fulfilling, terrifying, uplifting, etc. You’ve got to be really courageous, strong and prepared to stick to your guns. You can do it if you have a great product or idea that you believe in. It will be an intense and deep process, and it will change you. But, that’s what it is meant to do—right?

Kris: Tell us about the new range of products.

Lucy: My first line was made on my kitchen table with zero experience—just instinct and love—and I’ve kept that template for all the subsequent ranges. The new collection is beautiful. We have hand-carved head chains, and the exquisite crystals (amethysts, clear quartz, labrodite) can rest on your 3rd eye during meditation. They amplify your resonance. But if you want to wear it out, you can pull it down so it transforms into a necklace. They are completely unique and actually came to me during a meditation.

Kris: Thanks, Lucy!

Your turn: Have you taken a risk in your life? And, did it work out? If you haven’t, what’s keeping you from taking that leap? Share in the comments below!

Peace & passion,

Add a comment
  1. Lucy your words are just as beautiful as your stunning jewelry! Thank you and Kris for this interview. I especially like Lucy’s point about remembering to take care of ourselves – something I’m sure many of us overlook too often or feel selfish about. It positively impacts our lives and those around us when we are at our best. 🙂

  2. Josie says:

    Great interview! I was struck by some overwhelming similarities. Eight years ago, I left my job and started a construction company, specifically a mechanical company, meaning plumbing and HVAC installations. I had been in this type of work the majority of my career; however I knew there was a better way for it to be done. I know this may sound odd me being a female and all, but you never know where your passion will take you! As for the similarities, when we started BION, inc., we had no clients just dreams that turned into plans and then reality. I am asked frequently, how did you do it? Weren’t you afraid? The funny thing is that I wasn’t. I BELIEVED! I knew that it could be done and with my partners and original employees, we did it!! On the back of all of our hard hats and ball caps, we have the following words, “BELIEVE IT!” It reminds us that when we put our minds to it we can do it. My advice to all is once you know what you want to do, believe that you can. Your soul will listen.

    Eight years later, we are continuing to grow and are highly respected healthcare contractor (we build hospitals). It’s been a lot of work that has taken a toll on my self care. Next stop, as prescribed by Kris and Lucy, self care: mediation, exercise and rest here I come!

    Thank you, Kris for sharing Lucy’s wonderful story. May it inspire many!

  3. Sue Alexander says:

    Hello Kris, very inspiring story! would LOVE to know more about the Crystal jewelry. I went to the rock & raw website but could’nt get into the shopping page. Would you please let Lucy know it isn’t working. Hope to visit the sight soon! Thanks much! Sue

  4. Mary says:

    I can relate to many of the other women below because that is where I’m at in my life right now. I have been in a successful business for 27 years and made good money that has allowed me to travel and do the things I want however the constant pressure of my business has taken it’s toll on my health for the past 8 years and I have decided to do something I am passionate about. I was always creative as a child and throughout my life however as I got older I started to doubt myself and wondering if I would be successful in another business. It has taken 8 years of declining health for me to finally make a change and it has been the best thing I have done for myself. When I was younger I had a lot of faith in what I wanted to do and things just seem to work out. I never minded long hours as long as I was happy at what I was doing however as I got older I felt I had to be more responsible. I think making the decision is the hardest part however once you make it you feel like a weight has been lifted and you find a new sense of freedom to be and do what you….really want to do not what everyone else thinks you should be doing. Thank you for the post it is very inspiring and I think it will touch a lot of hearts. If money is an issue you can always do what your passionate about part time to see how you feel and see the response from other people. If your response is good it is easier to take the leap.

  5. Carol says:

    Amanda and Mary ….. I feel the same. I am in awe at how one takes a leap of faith and never looks back, yet what funds these businesses from their humble beginning’s (ie business cards, advertising, telephone, wages, supplies etc). For me my dream will never become a reality. Is it this negativity that fails me before I begin (without funds)?

    • I think its really easy to get fixated on funds. When I quit my job I had about £250 in my account and my rent was due in 10 days. There are times I have been terrified but it has been such a good tool for healing my fears. Trust. p.s what is your dream? <3

  6. Mary Scoville says:

    How do i pursue my passions and find a job i love when i need to work and cannot quit the work i am hateing to find that passion????I am there right now.. 🙁

    • Can you find a job that gives you enough financial support to enable you to have one day a week working for yourself/working on your passion?

      • Mary says:

        right now I do not have that. I work full time at a job I do not love and is stressful. This is why I am looking to figure out how to get out. Before life is over and I regret it or get sick from the stress!

  7. Kealailani says:

    Aloha Kris & Lucy!

    This email is amazing… The timing. I’ve been having thinking about these crystal pyramids for weeks.

    I’ve recently left my position as an Interior Designer to focus on regaining my health (with the help of the CSY Program!) and focusing on my 2 young sons. I have so many dreams I want to set in motion with this lift shift… seeing this email was an eye opener that the Universe really does listen to our thoughts, prayers and meditations!

    Mahalo,
    Kealailani

  8. Jule Snyder says:

    I’ve been an entrepreneur for a couple years now, and like Lucy, was drawn to creating things since I was a child. I fantasize about selling ny art to ‘the right person’ and my work just taking OFF! … but it hasn’t happened yet. It’s discouraging in the down times when not selling work, and because I’ve struggled badly with a couple serious health issues, it’s done a number on my self esteem. I would be OVERJOYED to quit my state job I’ve had for over a decade that I’ve kept out of fear mainly, not inspiration. I’ve also been battling major self doubt and different forms of self sabotage… I just am unsure of what to do next… What I do know is I can’t stay in this state job with golden shackles much longer….

  9. Jolynn says:

    I am continuing my full-time job at this point and am in my 10th week at IIN online. My goal is to start to help ckients with food and nutrition and then to later add personal training once I get that certification. When I get big enough I would like to incorporate more specific types of exercise. At this point I am in the very beginning stages and I am excited and terrified all at the same time. Thank you for this interview, I did need it right at this time. Love and Light to all ?

    • Kris Carr says:

      I’m so happy Lucy’s story resonated with you. And I love that you’re going at a pace that works for you. I’ve always been a big believer in “turtle power”. Good luck and keep going! xo, kc

  10. Amanda says:

    Lucy is awesome!! I love her story- it’s very inspiring. However, in almost all of the stories I’ve heard of someone leaving their job to pursue their passion, the person has (in my understanding) a somewhat good paying job. I cannot quit my job. I need it to just survive and take care of my family. I don’t have anything extra for a buffer to leave so that I can devote all my time to my passion. I think there are many of us out there who are in this circumstance (which I am well aware is because of the choices I have made). I am wondering what, if any, advice there is for someone who needs to continue working to live, but wants to do something more.
    Thanks for sharing your story with us, Lucy!

    • Kimberly Fineman says:

      Do it on the side, part time, until it becomes a full time career/passion, whereas you can quit that “other job”. Best wishes !

    • Astrid says:

      agree with Kimberley. Besides you will know that your daytime job is then for a good purpose- allowing you to pursue your dream at the side, and that gives more energy 🙂

  11. I took the leap and launched my philanthropy advising business in January. It’s been an amazing experience to create something from pure passion and a true calling. And you can’t fail because the minute you decide to face your fears and take the leap you’re already successful. Go for it sisters!

  12. This was an awesome read Kris – congratulations Lucy! I too left my spirit draining job years ago to start my own business and the Universe supported me with great success! When I got the signs that it was time to move on again, I started my 2nd business. I’m now a life coach who specializes in helping women stuck in spirit draining careers to take their passion and turn it into a profitable business. There is nothing more fulfilling than being able to do what you love for a living. xx

  13. This was exactly what I needed to hear today! I have been building my happy, healthy and hot business since November. I have ideas to make it bigger and take it to the next level, but there is also some fear. In the past, every time I have pushed past fear (not just in this business but in life) I have felt amazing and have been rewarded. This post gave me the inspiration I needed today. Thank you Kris and Lucy! (About to check out Lucy’s amazing jewelry!)

  14. Anna says:

    This interview was just what I needed to hear. Thank you so much for sharing this! I recently made the decision to take the leap and will be leaving my full-time job in February to devote myself fully to my business. I have been unhappy at my job for many years and know in my heart that this is the right move, but doubts and fears do inevitably creep up at times. But hearing stories of other entrepreneurs who have made the leap gives me faith that I will make it through and will build a thriving business and life. Best of luck to you, Lucy, and thank you to Kris for sharing this lovely interview 🙂 <3

  15. While I left my corporate job because of health reasons (stress, lower back problems, complete and utter frustration), I turned my creative passion into a cool little business etching wine glasses and lanterns (MysticMoose.ca). Like Lucy, I’ve always been creative and started giving my etched glasses as gifts. One thing led to another, and now I’ve got this great little business going. My creativity continues to abound as my journey has also led me down a path of health and wellness. When I quit my job 10 months ago, I was 50 lbs heavier than I am today, had high blood pressure, herniated discs, and suffered from depression and anxiety. Focusing on creativity and health (including the Crazy Sexy You program) has given me the spark I needed to explore new avenues to let my creative juices flow. Right now I’m working on an online community for women 45+ called Love Thy Goddess It’s about sharing all that incredible love, caring and passion we’ve given others throughout our lives, and learning how to give it back to “us”. A Self-Love Journey <3

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