YouTube personality and entrepreneur Dulce Candy discusses her experience as a veteran and how her service influenced her mindfulness company, Sweet Soul.
As an Iraq War veteran, you bring a unique perspective to your work as an influencer and entrepreneur. How do you incorporate your experiences in the military into the resources and guidance you provide through Sweet Soul, particularly for women who may also be veterans?
I know firsthand the unique mental and emotional challenges veterans face, which is why I focus on mental health and emotional well-being in my work. I share practical resources like meditation practices, sound healing, and mindfulness exercises to help women manage stress, anxiety, and trauma. By drawing from my own experiences and healing journey, I aim to offer support and guidance that truly resonates.
Can you share a memory from your time in the military that influenced the direction of your post-service career?
During my time in the Army, I had to follow strict guidelines and dress codes, which felt really limiting. While these rules are important for discipline, they suppressed a big part of who I am — my creativity and self-expression. I remember a moment when I realized how much this was affecting my mental well-being. That’s when I knew I needed to find a path that allowed me to express myself freely and fully.
Your journey from military service to becoming a successful entrepreneur and influencer is inspiring. What advice do you have for other veterans who may be navigating their transition to civilian life and pursuing their passions?
Take advantage of the various educational and career resources available to veterans. These can include GI Bill benefits, vocational training, workshops, and mentoring programs. These resources can help you gain new skills and qualifications that align with your passions.
Being a veteran, a mom, and an entrepreneur requires a unique balance of responsibilities. How do you manage these different aspects of your life, and how has your military background influenced your approach to leadership and time management?
Discipline is a cornerstone of my daily routine. I establish consistent schedules for work, family time, and self-care. This routine not only helps me stay organized but also creates a sense of stability and predictability for my family, especially my children.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for further supporting veterans through your work, and how do you envision continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of veterans?
My future goals for supporting veterans include teaching meditation as a skill to help them cope with PTSD. I plan to offer workshops and programs specifically designed to introduce veterans to mindfulness and meditation techniques that can reduce stress and improve mental health.
