Today, I came across something that has been with me for over 14 years—a $100 bill tucked away in my wallet. To anyone else, this may just seem like ordinary money, but to me, it carries a deeper meaning. It represents an important chapter in my life and serves as a reminder of the values I hold dear as an entrepreneur.
In 2010, while I was working at Luckyconcord Footwear in Taiwan, my boss, Jay, gave me an additional $400 each month on top of my salary. This wasn’t something I expected, but it was his way of recognizing my dedication and hard work. At the time, I often felt I didn’t deserve such generosity, but Jay saw something in my commitment, and that pushed me to give my best every day.
Though I’ve never been one to hold onto money for long, I kept this particular $100 bill. Even during challenging times when I faced financial difficulties, I didn’t spend it. To me, it became a symbol of trust and recognition, a reminder that I had to work harder to live up to the standards set for me.
As I embarked on my own journey of building Kaimoo Shoes, this $100 bill has stayed with me, symbolizing my commitment to excellence. I don’t see myself as a successful business owner—I am still very much an entrepreneur, working day by day to bring my vision to life. This bill has fueled my passion to create better shoes, improve my craft, and provide the best for my clients.
The value of this bill isn’t in its financial worth—it lies in the sense of responsibility it instills in me. It reminds me of the people who believed in me and motivates me to keep pushing forward, to create shoes that reflect that trust and passion.
As I continue on this journey, I hold myself to the same high standards I always have. I’m committed to creating shoes that stand out, shoes that honor the trust my clients place in me. This $100 bill is a reminder of that commitment, and a symbol of the wealth I find not in money, but in the journey, trust, and hard work that have brought me to where I am today.
