We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chef Mona Arnold. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chef Mona below.
Chef Mona, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
As a chef and pastry chef, I have come to realize that there is always something new to learn. The culinary world is constantly evolving, bringing new techniques, trends, and challenges, and I am always eager to stay up-to-date and expand my knowledge.
I’m constantly seeking opportunities to learn, whether it’s through attending culinary workshops, experimenting with new recipes, or collaborating with other chefs in the field. I believe that there is always something to learn from others, and I’m always open to different perspectives and approaches.
Moreover, I have found that having a growth mindset is essential in staying curious, open-minded, and hungry for knowledge. While it can be challenging to keep up with the constant changes in the culinary world, I approach it as an exciting adventure, always pushing the limits of my creativity and seeing where it takes me.
Ultimately, I feel that this never-ending pursuit of learning is what makes being a chef and pastry chef so rewarding, as there are always new heights to reach and innovations that can be made.
Chef Mona, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
In my thirties, I made the decision to further my education and build a career for myself. To start, I completed the FAFSA and sought advice from a local community college counselor. Despite being on disability since 18 due to childhood abuse, I was determined to set an example for my children and leave my disability behind. When asked about my interests, I mentioned my enjoyment of cooking, and the counselor suggested becoming a chef. Initially, I had negative thoughts about the career path,During the conversation with the counselor, I had a sudden realization that I was being overly negative and resistant to his suggestions. It felt as if a voice was asking me why I was wasting the counselor’s time, thinking that I knew everything and not being open to listen. It was then that I decided to change my attitude and listen to his advice, which led me to sign up for the Chef program. After completing that program, I became a Pastry Chef, as well. What sets me apart from others is my insatiable thirst for knowledge and my eagerness to learn from anyone who shares my interests, regardless of their professional title and or background. Even though I have already earned degrees in my chosen career path, I understand that education is a never-ending journey, and I remain humbly receptive to expanding my understanding of my field by tapping into all available sources of knowledge.
I take immense pride in myself because despite being told by a professional doctor that I would never be able to work, I refused to accept his diagnosis as my fate. At one point in my life, I had come to rely on monthly checks to make ends meet, but it never felt right to let someone else control the narrative of my future. I refused to let his opinion define my existence and limit my potential for growth. Instead, I decided to take matters into my own hands, work hard towards my goals, and prove that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. Looking back, I feel a sense of accomplishment in knowing that I didn’t let that diagnosis become my life story, and that I have created a future for myself that I can be proud of.
I want my fans and followers to realize that life is all about positive manipulation. The story of the tortoise and the hare is a valuable lesson that applies to all aspects of our lives. It’s important to acknowledge that past generations can pass down both blessings and curses, and we may experience both throughout our lifetime. However, it’s crucial that we become our own biggest supporters and surround ourselves with like-minded individuals to maintain the momentum. The more we learn to love and approve of ourselves, the easier life becomes, even on the toughest days.
Growing up, I faced challenges such as being told by my mother that she never liked me since birth. Despite this, I refused to let this define me or hold me back. While nurturing and love from her wasn’t something I received, I took self-examination as the first step to redefine my life. I recognized that I needed to change the people I was around and surround myself with individuals moving in the direction that aligned with my own. Talking about my past abuse and disability isn’t something that needs to be the sole conversation topic, as people have gone through worse, but have chosen to self-examine and move forward.
By focusing on positive manipulation and choosing to love ourselves, we can transform our lives and achieve our dreams, even in the face of adversity.
I strongly believe that character remains the same, and only our behavior changes based on circumstances. It’s true that many families have certain traits passed down through generations, whether they are positive or negative. It’s important to keep in mind that every family has both good and bad rebels.
When we come across situations where we feel wronged or mistreated, it’s crucial to put ourselves in the other person’s shoes and imagine how we would feel if someone did or said the same things to us. By cultivating empathy and compassion, we can better understand others and foster positive relationships.
As a Celebrity Chef, I’ve also learned the importance of energy when working with clients. Even when I’m not feeling my best, it’s essential to transfer good energy to my clients in all interactions. Unknowingly, this positive energy tends to circle back around to me. By focusing on positive character traits, behavior, and energy, we can achieve success in all areas of our lives.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I firmly believe that food is prepared in an atmosphere of love, and the act of cooking is a labor of love in itself. After putting in the time and effort to create a delicious meal, there’s a sense of pride and satisfaction that comes from receiving praise for the dishes. It’s heartening to see individuals genuinely delighted by my services, and it never feels like I owe anyone anything beyond the food that I have prepped.
Desserts are also a special category of food that brings back excellent memories from the past. Whenever I enjoy a dessert, it’s rare that any memories of being punished or reprimanded cross my mind. Desserts are often associated with rewards, and for me, they bring back joyful memories of celebrations, special occasions, and happy moments shared with family and friends. In essence, cooking allows me to spread love and joy through food, and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the happiness it brings to others.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
While I was in training to become a chef, I decided to hang out with my friends one night, and unfortunately, our car was rear-ended by a dump truck. The accident caused a significant setback in my life, and I had to face numerous challenges to recover fully.
Despite the hardships, I showed resilience and kept pushing forward. I received proper medical attention, and I focused on a steady rehabilitation and healing process. I was determined to get back to my track, and I utilized the support of loved ones to rebuild my strength, both mentally and physically.
It wasn’t easy, but I persevered and overcame the challenges, and eventually returned to my training to become a chef. The experience taught me the importance of resilience and how it is crucial to stay optimistic and persevere even in the face of adversity.
It took me longer than expected to complete my two-year degree, but I never lost sight of my goal. Through determination and hard work, I eventually graduated from my program. However, I wasn’t content with stopping there, and I quickly enrolled in pastry arts classes the following Monday.
Though some people may have taken a break after finishing a degree, I knew that my passion and drive would keep me going. I was determined to learn as much as I could about the culinary world, and I knew that the skills and techniques I would learn in pastry arts would complement my culinary knowledge well.
It wasn’t always easy juggling school work and other responsibilities, but I remained focused and diligent, working hard to achieve my dreams. Looking back, I am proud of myself for having the tenacity to continue pursuing my passions despite setbacks and obstacles.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Celebrity_Chef_Mona704
- Facebook: ChefMona
- Youtube: ChefMona01
- Other: I am humbled for the opportunity. Have. a Phenomenal day.
Image Credits
Vyzion Photography Greg Bailey