Need a perk-me-up? Lee Ting Ong is one of the brains behind Wake The Crew, which specialises in cold brew coffee and tea concentrates.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented and inspiring folks, so we’ve decided to share the love by interviewing some of the lovely Launchpad members. Looking for inspiration? Check out how Lee Ting Ong, the co-founder of Wake The Crew, gets it done like a boss.
What is your backstory and why did you decide to launch your business?
I didn’t grow up in a well-to-do family and started working for my own allowance during my schooling days. I believe that while I may not have as many opportunities, I can take control of my own life. That’s why I decided to go on a different route from most of my peers and launch my business in a field I’m passionate about. Work isn’t work when it’s something you love. The long hours and high stress levels of being a business owner haven’t deterred me from doing what I love.
What has been your biggest challenge so far and how did you overcome it?
A lack of time is the biggest challenge for me as a business owner. I find myself investing the majority of my time in my business and having to thinly divide whatever little bit is left between family, friends and self-care. I overcome this by journaling, scheduling and prioritising my limited time to integrate and make time for all aspects of my life. While being a business owner may be an exciting and fulfilling journey, it’s equally important for me to make time for myself and the people in my life.
How do you stay motivated and energised?
I ensure that I keep my body and mind healthy. Running a business can be exceptionally taxing physically and mentally. To keep up, I ensure that my health is in tip-top condition. I typically try to eat clean, stay away from sugary foods, and work out one to three times a week either at the gym or playing sports. I also journal regularly to keep clarity of mind and stay focused on my goals.
How do you deal with self-doubt or criticism?
Every business owner will face a moment like this at some point. I typically deal by taking time off to realign myself. As a young female founder, I’ve faced doubts and criticism. But I rationalise that most criticisms come from a single perspective based on the limited information they have.
I also get help and support by being transparent with my thoughts and emotions. I often share my self-doubt or insecurities with my co-founder, who offers me a different perspective. We work as a team to keep our morale high even in times of crisis.
Favourite places to work?
I’m more of a work from anywhere-but-home kind of person. I enjoy interacting and bouncing ideas with my colleagues in the office. Or I’ll head down to a cafe or a co-working space where there’s a little white noise and some human interaction to keep my energy going.
Favourite business tool?
My trusty old journal! As old school as it sounds, writing down my to-do list and ticking it off keeps me motivated and aligned with my goals for the day. There are plenty of online tools available but I still use journaling to keep me focused.
One thing you can keep talking about for hours?
Astrology! It’s totally unrelated to my line of work, but I love decoding the ways of the world and what makes each of us unique.
Your go-to self-care activity?
I decompress with coffee and nature. When I have a day off, I start my morning by taking my dog on a long walk in the park and end with brunch at my favourite cafe. I also love to work out at the gym as it keeps my mind off my work stress.
One piece of advice to your younger self?
Rome wasn’t built in a day. Things take time. Believe in yourself and continue working hard – you’ll get there!
Get in touch with Lee Ting Ong online.
Launchpad is a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It is designed to make the entrepreneurial journey not only easier, and more successful, but also a whole lot more fun. We offer almost daily activities for members to connect, along with weekly masterclasses, member networking roulette, small-business mentoring and media profiles on Honeycombers. Check it out and join us!
