Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anastasia Lee. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Anastasia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was deciding to stay in the U.S. after my student exchange program ended. I came to the U.S. at 20, with no plans to stay beyond the program, but as war broke out in Ukraine, I found myself at a crossroads. I could return home, where my family was already struggling, or stay in the U.S. and try to build a life here to support them from afar.

The decision to stay was terrifying. I didn’t have a safety net, a stable job, or even a full grasp of the language. I worked three jobs, with no days off, just to pay for legal fees and survive in a foreign country. On top of that, I had to navigate the complex immigration system, something I had no experience with, and often felt overwhelmed by.

There were many moments when I doubted my decision. I was alone, juggling responsibilities, and constantly fighting to make ends meet. But as difficult as it was, staying turned out to be the best decision of my life. It pushed me to grow, to persevere, and to build something from the ground up. Over time, I not only secured my place here but also created a successful business, Nestplace, which allows me to use the resilience I developed to help others bring order and peace into their lives.

The risk was enormous, but the reward was even greater. It taught me that sometimes the most difficult choices lead to the most meaningful outcomes.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Anastasia, founder of Nestplace, a San Diego-based home organizing and cleaning service. My passion for organizing comes from my personal journey of creating order from chaos, and I bring that same dedication to every home I work in. At Nestplace, we offer services like decluttering, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out assistance, and closet resets, designed to help clients find peace in their spaces.

What makes Nestplace different is our heart-centered, personalized approach. We understand that home organization can be emotional, and we work with our clients to create spaces that feel calm, functional, and easy to maintain. Our goal isn’t just a clean home—it’s about transforming your environment to bring you more balance and clarity into your life.

If you’re searching for professional home organizing or cleaning services in San Diego, I’m here to help you create a space that supports your well-being and makes everyday life easier.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

When I first moved to the U.S. at 20, the cultural differences and language barriers hit me hard. I quickly realized that speaking English fluently wasn’t just a skill; it was a necessity for everything from finding employment to making friends. The language barrier made it difficult to land decent jobs, and the ones I did find often came with unfair treatment because I couldn’t fully communicate or stand up for myself.

On top of that, the cultural differences were overwhelming. I struggled to connect with people, understand social norms, and adapt to a new way of life. It was a lonely time, and I often felt isolated, wondering if I’d ever truly find my place. Even something as simple as making friends or navigating daily tasks was a challenge.

But I didn’t let those struggles define me. Instead, I pushed through, determined to improve my language skills, adapt to my new environment, and build a life here. Over time, I not only found my footing, but I also created a career I love, helping others find peace and order in their homes. That experience taught me the power of resilience in the face of uncertainty and discomfort, and it’s a lesson I carry with me every day in my work at Nestplace. Just like I overcame the challenges of adapting to a new culture, I help my clients conquer the overwhelm in their homes, creating spaces that bring clarity and calm.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been networking and building meaningful connections. I’ve found that authentic relationships are key—whether it’s connecting with other business owners, collaborators, or potential clients. It’s not just about exchanging business cards; it’s about truly understanding how you can help someone and offering value.

I’ve also learned to value myself and my skills. For a long time, I struggled with imposter syndrome, but I realized that the work I do makes a real difference in people’s lives. When I embraced my worth and confidently communicated the impact of what I offer, clients naturally followed. Believing in yourself and the value you bring is critical to attracting the right people who recognize and appreciate your expertise.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nest.place
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nest.place
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/nestplace-by-anastasia-san-diego-9?utm_source=ishare
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/Nestplacellc/

Image Credits

My amazing photographer Erica Joan https://www.ericajoan.com