You Are Beautiful

Jan Becnel Ping
San Gabriel, CA
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, 11 years survivor
www.janping.com

1. What was the darkest moment in your cancer journey?
I have to say, from the moment I was diagnosed, I made the conscious choice to focus only on the positive. I would find anything that made me happy or smile and stay in that place of gratitude. When my mind would wander to a dark place, (it usually happened when I would search the internet for answers), although educating myself on my cancer was necessary, allowing myself to become fearful did nothing but make me upset, so I eventually stopped that process.

2. If you could go back and talk to your pre-cancer self, what would you say?
I would tell myself to look at all of those little things that once bothered me and let them go. They no longer serve me. I would voice them aloud, thank them for whatever value they added at the time and then release them.

3. How has cancer changed you?
It has helped me to find my purpose. I have been a makeup artist/hair stylist for over 30 years. It’s been a great career but not as rewarding as it could be. Now that I am able to help so many women with my expertise, it truly is my blessing.

4. How did you find the inspiration to do your 2nd Act?
It found me. I was asked to share my knowledge and my experience with my cancer journey and treatment. It has now become what I do and it has lead to finding something that really makes me happy.

5. What have been your brightest moments in your 2nd Act?
My brightest MOMENTS are every time someone leaves my makeup chair with that renewed sparkle in their eyes. It’s my motivation and my joy.

6. Where do you see yourself going from here?
Continuing on this path of helping women reconnect with their inner beauty. To find it, embrace and nurture this absolutely flawless place. Most importantly: confirming we are all enough just as we are, period.

7.What’s your favorite quote and how does it fit into your 2nd Act?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. Simple and perfect!

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