Meet Jaya “TooCool” Turner | Aspiring Jeweler

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jaya “TooCool” Turner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jaya “TooCool”, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Honestly, I’m still finding my balance. I work at a community center 10a-4:30p currently (times vary depending on the time of year) and some Saturdays 10a-2p. The job alone is very fun, active, and rewarding. However, it is draining at times. When I get home, I genuinely just want to relax and chill to prepare for the next day, but in order to expand my business I can’t always do that. There are times at work when I have to figure out what to post on my social media while also tending to a child who needs me. I believe that self should always come first, but I also know that in order to live the life I dream to live I have to sacrifice that free time and pour my energy into my business even when I am physically, mentally, and spiritually drained. On the days I feel completely depleted… I asked myself, “How bad do you want it?” Some days I’m hungry and I push through. Other days I fold and watch YouTube videos, a show, or movie. I’ve learned to respect and accept where I am in a moment. I believe that balance is very important but in order to find balance in life one must find self, love self wholeheartedly, and respect self. Everyday is not about the grind. It’s about the journey we choose to take. As long as our intentions stem from a place of love, balance will follow.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve gotten where I am professionally by believing in myself and believing that what I have to offer is just as great as anyone else who is pursuing their dreams. It was far from easy, it took self growth to realize that. Which is a whole other story for another day. I’ve learned to stay in my lane. Comparing myself to others will always make me feel inadequate but only I can do and be me, so the best thing I can do for myself is, me! I want the world to know that I am just like anyone else. We all can win. My brand is literally me. I don’t try to force anything. I simply just do me and if that means this month I drop something classy and elegant and next month I drop something basic, that’s exactly what I will do because that’s what makes me who I am. I want people to know that the best formula to success is the one that is genuinely being themselves.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
All of my Bestfriends are from where I am from and we all are very similar. We like to chill and bond lol. We’d probably chill at my spot or Xan’s (owner of Creative Junkiez). We’d drink tequila. Eat pizza or cook something. If we did go out somewhere it would be between Willie B’s, Minerva, Vibes, or 3000 Bar. If we wanted to have some active fun we’d go skating, bowling, or a trampoline place. We genuinely could have the time of our lives in a parking garage just vibing and talking. The most exciting people and places/things to check out are those I surround myself with. When me and all my homies get together we always have a good time no matter where we go. You literally never know what may happen.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Number 1 my family and friends. They have supported me from day one. My momma and her boyfriend have not only poured into me mentally and emotionally but they have also financially helped me get off the ground. They are true investors in TooCool Jewelry & Accessories. My real friends support me by not asking for free stuff but by paying for my work with no questions asked. I have to highlight my friend Cheyenne because she introduced me to a young jeweler in my hometown of Nashville, TN who I am now doing an apprenticeship with. For years I’ve spoken of being a jeweler and she introduced me to the person who will help in making that dream come true. Lastly, and most importantly… God. The creator of all things has blessed me with and to all the people and opportunities that bring my dreams into reality. God is the reason for it all. From my support system to my ability to do and be who I am. All credit first goes to the one that is love.

Website: TooCoolJewelry.com

Instagram: @toocooljewelry

Twitter: @tcbracelets

Image Credits
Photographer: IG @autumnchanel_photography Male model: IG @sethdrogen