Daily Inspiration: Meet Catherine Vasquez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Vasquez.

Hi Catherine, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m originally from a small town in Texas but moved to Colorado in June 2020. While I grew up surrounded by traditional small-town values, I’ve come to realize I don’t fully align with many of them. I’m grateful my family raised me with love and kindness at the core, which shaped my desire to understand the world more deeply. School was a typical experience—navigating social dynamics, finding my place, and doing my best in class. College was tougher; I learned differently and often lacked interest in required courses, like math and physics. Going to school in South Texas, I began to see how my values—centered on community and empathy—differed from those around me, who often seemed to prioritize judgment over understanding. This was the point when my values really solidified, and I became passionate about standing up for those who don’t have the power to stand up for themselves. I started to notice how much anger and intolerance there was in the world, especially toward people who don’t fit into the mold of what’s considered “normal.” It was disheartening to realize how often people respond to difference with fear or hatred instead of curiosity or compassion. I still find it hard to grasp how something as simple as being different—whether in identity, background, or beliefs—can lead to such deep-rooted animosity. That realization pushed me to be more intentional about living with empathy and using my voice to advocate for a more inclusive and understanding world. Early in college, I knew I didn’t want to stay in Texas. I wanted new experiences, to be around people I could connect with, but who would also push me to grow. Leaving was one of the best decisions I’ve made—I’ve never looked back. I’m a big believer in stepping outside your comfort zone and choosing growth, even when it’s uncomfortable. In my personal life, I make it a point to have honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations and to take responsibility for learning about cultures and experiences outside my own. I think it’s essential to actively seek out perspectives that challenge your assumptions—it’s one of the best ways to grow. I never want to stay stuck in one way of thinking just because it feels familiar. No one has it all figured out, and I don’t expect to either. But I do believe there’s always room to grow, to listen more closely, and to see the world through a broader, more compassionate lens.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I don’t think many people have a truly “smooth road.” Life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs, and it rarely goes according to plan. I learned that pretty early in college—things rarely unfolded the way I thought they would. Life can be messy, but I’ve found that there’s often a strange kind of beauty in those messes. Some of my lowest moments have unexpectedly led to some of my highest.
As an adult, I’ve had to come to terms with being diagnosed with Severe Generalized Anxiety Disorder, along with depression—something I know many people quietly struggle with. Understanding what those diagnoses meant for me and figuring out how to move forward hasn’t been a straightforward path. It’s been complicated, uncomfortable, and at times overwhelming. But it’s also taught me a lot about resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of giving yourself, and those around you, grace through it all.
This past year has been an emotional whirlwind. From the joy of getting engaged to a partner who brings so much light into my life, to suddenly becoming a caregiver as he faced multiple knee surgeries in a matter of months, and then experiencing the heartbreak of unexpectedly losing one of our soul dogs. While these challenges aren’t uncommon, having them all come at once made everything feel heavier and more intense. We know there are far worse struggles out there, and we’re truly grateful that these are the lows we face right now. It’s given us perspective and deepened our commitment to approaching life with empathy for what others may be going through.
The saying “when it rains, it pours” has never felt more real. But through the storm, we’ve found incredible warmth and support in our community—a powerful reminder that we’re never truly alone. Life unfolds in unexpected ways, bringing people in and out of our lives at just the right moments. It’s in these connections, these unexpected gifts, that we find hope and healing.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Senior Graphic Designer at a creative tech agency, specializing in digital advertising across clients from branding to gaming, with experience in branding and packaging as well. I started my career later than most—college took longer than planned, and then COVID disrupted everything, which brought a lot of anxiety. Since joining the industry, I’ve focused on growing my skills and learning from the amazing creatives around me. I believe no matter how long you’ve been in the field, there’s always something new to learn from your team. Approaching life with curiosity opens the door to endless learning, deeper connections, and a richer understanding of the world around us.
I really enjoy working across different areas of design—it’s one of the things I love most about this field. There’s so much power in creativity and the psychology behind the choices we make is endlessly fascinating. Taking a client’s idea and bringing it to life feels truly rewarding. Some days, it’s easy to just go through the motions and treat work like a checklist, but then seeing my designs out in the world during a walk reminds me of the college version of myself—doubting if I belonged here. Those moments make me realize how far I’ve come and why I keep pushing forward.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My family, fiancé, friends, and mentors have been incredible sources of support and guidance throughout my journey. There have been plenty of times when I’ve questioned my place in this industry, but I’ve always had people around me who believe in me and help me find my footing again.
At my current agency, I’m lucky to be surrounded by a team that not only pushes me to grow but also shows up when I need support. My managers have been especially instrumental in helping me navigate my career—they’re always there to listen, offer advice, or just be a sounding board when I need one.
My fiancé is my biggest cheerleader. He hypes me up when I’m feeling stuck, celebrates every win like it’s his own, and is genuinely thrilled anytime he sees my work out in the world.
And my parents—well, I’m sure hearing I wanted to go into a creative field gave them a bit of a scare, but they’ve never wavered in their belief in me. Even when things didn’t go as planned, they were always there, steady and supportive, helping me figure out the next step. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have such supportive, encouraging people in my life—people who genuinely want the best for me and who show up, especially in the moments when I start to doubt myself. Whether it’s a gentle push to keep going, a reminder of how far I’ve come, or simply being there to listen, their presence has made all the difference. I know without a doubt that I wouldn’t be the person, or the creative, I am today without their steady belief in me. Their motivation, honesty, and inspiration continue to shape how I show up in my work and in the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://cvasqudesigns.com/

Image Credits
https://emilyelizabethphotography.me/