Finding Purpose Beyond the Corporate Ladder

in today’s fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves questioning their career paths, yearning for something more fulfilling. The story of Jang Eun-hee, the founder of the eco-friendly bag brand ‘Muse Inspire Baiyu,’ exemplifies this sentiment. After two decades navigating the demanding world of tech, she traded her high-powered corporate role for the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

The genesis of an Idea: Necessity as the Mother of Invention

Jang Eun-hee’s journey began with a personal frustration. As a frequent business traveler, she struggled to find a women’s bag that was both stylish and functional, capable of withstanding the rigors of travel while accommodating her laptop and other essentials.Existing options were either too fragile or too masculine. This unmet need sparked a vision: to create the perfect bag, one that combined durability, lightness, and contemporary design. This vision eventually became ‘Muse Inspire Baiyu’.

“Challenge.If you find what you want to calm down, you have to go. Of course, there’s a lot of chances of failing, but it’s a timid action to fold a dream because of fear.”

Jang Eun-hee, CEO of Muse Inspire Baiyu

From Silicon Valley to Sustainable Fashion

Before venturing into the world of fashion, Jang Eun-hee held prominent positions at tech giants like Google, Facebook, tiktok, and Snapchat, overseeing global sales and marketing strategies. Her extensive experience in digital marketing and global expansion provided a solid foundation for her future entrepreneurial endeavors. Though, the demanding nature of her work, coupled with the challenges of living abroad as a “goose mother” in Singapore, led her to re-evaluate her priorities. She began to question what truly mattered to her and what she genuinely dreamed of achieving.

The global sustainable fashion market is experiencing important growth. According to a recent report by Statista, the market is projected to reach $9.81 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow annually by 8.48% (CAGR 2024-2029). This trend reflects a growing consumer awareness of environmental issues and a desire for more ethical and sustainable products.

Taking the Leap: From Dream to Reality

Driven by a desire to pursue her passion, Jang Eun-hee embarked on a two-year journey of learning and preparation. She immersed herself in the world of bag design and manufacturing, studying the intricacies of the craft and the nuances of brand management.She visited factories in China,connected with fabric suppliers worldwide,and sought guidance from industry experts. Despite facing moments of doubt and frustration, she remained steadfast in her commitment to her vision.

The Power of Challenge and Inspiration for Women

Jang Eun-hee’s success story serves as an inspiration, particularly for women who may have experienced career interruptions due to childcare or other personal commitments. She emphasizes that life experience is invaluable and that women possess a unique ability to juggle multiple responsibilities. Her message is clear: if you have a dream, don’t be afraid to pursue it. Embrace the challenge, and you might potentially be surprised at what you can achieve.

“Nowadays,there are many women who lose confidence due to career disconnection due to childcare and childbirth. But nothing to be afraid… So if you really want something you really want, please try ‘challenge’ like Jang Eun -hee. The challenge is the frist button to leave it as a wonderful mother who is confident and does not give up.”

Marketing Expertise: A Key to Success

With two decades of experience in digital marketing, Jang Eun-hee possessed a distinct advantage in launching and promoting her brand. Her expertise in developing marketing strategies, launching products, and supporting global expansion proved invaluable in generating remarkable sales and establishing a presence in the competitive fashion market. The brand even launched a pop-up store in france last month.

“I have been working on digital marketing in Google, Yahoo, Facebook, Tic Talk, and Snapchat… At that time, digital was not developed as it is now, so I had to run everything by myself. In addition, marketing is an idea fight, so I lived constantly to put a new input.”

The Allure of International Experience: A Career Crossroads

In today’s interconnected world, the appeal of international work experience is stronger than ever. For marketing professionals, in particular, the chance to work abroad can be a career-defining moment. One such professional, Jang Eun-hee, a seasoned digital marketing executive, faced this very dilemma when presented with a role at Snapchat in Singapore. Her story offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of pursuing a global career path.

Overcoming Initial Hesitations: Family and Career

The decision to relocate for work, especially with a family, is rarely straightforward. jang Eun-hee initially grappled with concerns about uprooting her family, particularly her young child. The practical challenges were significant: her husband’s career and the child’s well-being were paramount. However, the allure of Snapchat, a company experiencing rapid growth and garnering significant attention, proved too strong to resist. She saw it as a unique opportunity to understand the inner workings of a cutting-edge platform and potentially the pinnacle of her career. After extensive discussions with her husband, she decided to embark on this new chapter, leaving for Singapore with her five-year-old child.

I was so curious about the company called Snapchat…I wanted to see what kind of structure, plan and system, and what are the actual differences from other platforms.

Adapting to a New Environment: Challenges and Triumphs

Relocating to a new country presents a myriad of challenges, from language barriers to cultural differences. Jang Eun-hee faced these head-on, navigating a new work environment while simultaneously caring for her child in a foreign land. despite initial concerns about language proficiency, her child adapted remarkably well to kindergarten, quickly integrating and communicating with peers. This experience highlighted the resilience and adaptability of children, often exceeding parental expectations.The company’s support in securing visas and creating a conducive environment was also instrumental in easing the transition.

according to a recent study by PwC, companies that actively support employees during international assignments see a 40% increase in employee satisfaction and a 25% reduction in attrition rates.

A Moment of Crisis: The Importance of Support Systems

Even with careful planning and support, unexpected crises can arise.Jang Eun-hee recounted a particularly harrowing experience when her child suffered an injury. The incident triggered a wave of emotions and anxieties, highlighting the vulnerability of being far from home and familiar support networks. The immediate response from her husband, who coordinated assistance remotely, and a supportive colleague who lived nearby, proved invaluable. This experience underscored the critical importance of having a strong support system in place when navigating life abroad.

The Power of encouragement: Perseverance and Growth

Despite the challenges, Jang Eun-hee persevered, fueled by the unwavering support of her family. Their encouragement helped her overcome feelings of guilt and self-doubt,allowing her to fully embrace the opportunities that Singapore offered. This resilience led to her taking on greater responsibilities within Snapchat, further enriching her professional experience. After two years, she concluded her assignment, returning home with a wealth of new knowledge and perspectives.

Beyond the Corporate World: Sharing Knowledge and Experience

Having spent over two decades in the digital marketing industry, Jang Eun-hee is now channeling her expertise into sharing her knowledge with others. She conveys marketing know-how through lectures and lectures.Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring marketing professionals, demonstrating the transformative power of international experience and the importance of adaptability, resilience, and a strong support network. Her story highlights the growing trend of professionals leveraging their global experiences to contribute to the broader industry and inspire the next generation of leaders.

A Career Pivot Driven by Passion and Purpose

In an era where career reinvention is becoming increasingly common, Jang Eun-hee’s story stands out as a testament to the power of passion and the willingness to embrace new challenges.Leaving behind a successful career in global tech, including a stint at google, Jang embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, launching her own bag business. This transition, fueled by a desire for continuous learning and a zest for life, highlights a growing trend of professionals seeking more fulfilling and autonomous career paths. According to a recent study by the U.S. Bureau of labor Statistics, career changes are becoming more frequent, with individuals now holding an average of 12 different jobs throughout their working lives.

Identifying a Need: The Genesis of a Bag Brand

Jang’s foray into the bag business wasn’t a random decision. it stemmed from a genuine desire to create something she was passionate about. During the brand’s development, she engaged with working mothers, identifying a gap in the market for functional and stylish bags tailored to their needs. This customer-centric approach, focusing on a specific niche, is a key strategy for small businesses looking to gain a foothold in competitive markets. As Jang notes,despite facing challenges,her enthusiasm and belief in the product propelled her forward,surpassing even her dedication during her corporate days. While acknowledging that success is still a work in progress, she sees promising growth in sales and customer support.

Leveraging Global Marketing expertise

Jang’s background as a global marketer proved invaluable in establishing and operating her brand.Her experience at Google,particularly in search advertising,equipped her with the skills to connect with factory personnel and navigate business negotiations effectively. This highlights the transferable skills that can be gained from diverse professional experiences. If you learn anything, you can use it forever, Jang emphasizes, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in today’s dynamic business environment. Her marketing acumen,honed through assisting other companies,also plays a crucial role in promoting her brand.

Marketing strategy: A Laser focus on Women

The brand’s marketing strategy centers on a highly targeted approach, focusing specifically on women. Utilizing platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Snapchat, Jang employs a meticulous targeting strategy, reaching individuals who genuinely need her products.This targeted marketing approach is particularly effective for small businesses with limited resources, allowing them to maximize their reach and impact. By initially focusing on a narrow target audience and gradually expanding as they react, Jang demonstrates a strategic and data-driven approach to marketing. Despite being a one-person operation, she manages all marketing and sales efforts, attributing the brand’s success to her prior experience and a willingness to learn and adapt.

Finding Aptitude and Fulfillment

For jang, launching her own brand has been a journey of self-finding, revealing her true aptitude and passion. She views her previous career experiences as stepping stones that led her to this fulfilling endeavor. The positive impact of her work is evident in her well-being, as noted by former colleagues. This underscores the importance of finding work that aligns with one’s values and passions, leading to increased happiness and fulfillment.

Giving Back: Free Consulting for Small Brands

Beyond running her own brand, Jang is committed to supporting other small businesses through free consulting services. Inspired by her own experiences, she aims to share her knowledge and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs who may lack the marketing expertise to succeed. This altruistic endeavor reflects a growing trend of successful individuals giving back to their communities and empowering others to achieve their dreams. Jang’s dedication to helping small brands, particularly those with excellent products and designs, stems from a desire to see them thrive and contribute to the vibrant Korean business landscape.

Balancing Act: Family First

Despite the numerous responsibilities she juggles as a brand owner, consultant, and mother, Jang prioritizes her family above all else. One of the key benefits of running her own business is the adaptability it offers, allowing her to structure her schedule around her child’s needs. This highlights the growing desire for work-life balance and the increasing number of individuals seeking entrepreneurial ventures that provide greater autonomy and control over their time.

The Tightrope Walk: Juggling Career and Family

For working mothers, the day often feels like a race against the clock.From early morning school runs to demanding afternoon deadlines, the pressure to excel both at work and at home can be immense. one working mom shares her experiences, highlighting the constant effort to manage schedules and minimize any perceived neglect from her child. She admits, What can’t be perfect is the fate of the working mom. This sentiment resonates with many who strive for an elusive balance.

According to recent studies, over 70% of mothers with children under 18 participate in the labor force. This statistic underscores the prevalence of working mothers and the importance of addressing the unique challenges they face. The Pew Research Center notes that while societal expectations have evolved, working mothers still often bear the brunt of childcare and household responsibilities.

The Power of Dialog: Soothing Your Child’s Heart

One of the biggest hurdles for working mothers is managing their child’s emotions, especially when work demands attention. This mother of a four-year-old son discovered the power of open communication. Initially,she felt compelled to instantly appease her child’s distress with distractions. Though, she realized this wasn’t a sustainable long-term solution. Instead, she began explaining her work, its importance, and the time it required.

the child sat still and listened to me and started to play alone, saying, “Then call me after work.”

This approach fostered understanding and independence in her son. She reflects, It’s a child who can fully understand the situation and feelings of others.I realized once again that the child is only old and is as mature and smart as adults. This highlights the importance of treating children with respect and acknowledging their capacity for empathy.

Embracing Imperfection: The “Mom with Holes”

Perfection is an unrealistic expectation for any parent, but especially for working mothers.This mom embraces her imperfections, describing herself as a “Mom with a lot of holes” who is prone to losing things and getting lost. Her child’s gentle teasing, she says, makes her feel both unique and strong. Despite the challenges of balancing work and family, she prioritizes quality time with her child.

Her strategy involves:

• Turning off her phone to eliminate distractions.
• Focusing intently on her child during interactions.
• Maintaining eye contact and engaging in physical affection.
• Expressing love and gratitude frequently.

She believes that these actions convey her deep affection and commitment, even amidst a busy schedule. This approach aligns with research suggesting that quality time and consistent expressions of love are crucial for a child’s emotional well-being, regardless of the quantity of time spent together.

Words of Encouragement: Taking the leap Back to Work

For mothers contemplating a return to the workforce, the prospect can be daunting.This working mom offers a powerful message: Challenge unconditionally. She acknowledges the realistic concerns that frequently enough lead to hesitation, but emphasizes that inaction leads to stagnation. She encourages women to seek out even small work opportunities to experience the sense of accomplishment that comes from professional engagement.

When I prepared the brand, I was worried and fear every day. But when I constantly thought and tried, the difficulties were solved.I hope you never give up and be courageous.It’s not perfect from the beginning, so you can start it and get a little bit of completeness while solving the difficulties coming. I hope you don’t miss the precious time you can grow.

Her advice underscores the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and self-belief. The journey may not be seamless,but the rewards of personal and professional growth are well worth the effort. This resonates with the broader movement empowering #WorkingMom and #Women to pursue their ambitions while nurturing their families.