We recently connected with Candace Stribling and have shared our conversation below.
Candace, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
As a female jewelry designer, I am no stranger to imposter syndrome. It can be tough to shake off the feeling that you don’t truly belong in the industry, especially when doubts and negative thoughts creep in.
But I’ve found ways to overcome those feelings and reinforce positive self-talk. Reading books on imposter syndrome was a critical first step. Learning what it is and why it happens allowed me to understand that I’m not weak for feeling this way. I also make sure to lift myself up by reminding myself of past successes and accomplishments. Attending classes to learn new jewelrymaking techniques helps boost my confidence and gives me the skills I need to continue innovating and pushing the boundaries of my craft.
And, of course, having a strong support system is crucial. My friends and family, along with other jewelry designers, offer the encouragement I need to silence those self-doubts and believe in myself. With these tools at my disposal, I’m confident in my ability to thrive in this industry and follow my passions.
Jewelry-making has always been my passion, but lately I found myself struggling with imposter syndrome. I constantly felt like a fraud and considered leaving the craft altogether. That’s when I decided to take on two ancient Asian metalsmithing techniques to help me get my groove back. I learned Keum-Boo, a Korean gold bonding technique, and Mokume Gane, a Japanese metalworking technique. I was amazed at what these workshops did for me. They made me feel reinvigorated and gave me a sense of purpose. I was reminded of why I fell in love with jewelry-making in the first place. My positive thoughts and self-talk were put to the test, but with the support of my friends, I came out stronger than ever.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Discovering the art of jewelry making was more than just a hobby for me. It became a source of empowerment and self-assurance.
As a modern woman, I know the struggle of exuding confidence externally while battling self-doubt internally. That’s why I embarked on a mission to create contemporary minimalist jewelry – not just to let women express their unique style, but to also serve as a constant reminder of their inherent strength and power.
Like countless other women, I used to be held captive by insecurities and fears. However, through perseverance, determination, and introspection, I broke free from those limitations and unearthed my own personal power. Embarking on this jewelry-making journey has been a vital part of my own self-discovery, and now, I aim to share what I’ve learned with other women. Empowering them to embark on their own journey of self-confidence and inner strength.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I’ve always been resilient, optimistic, and a dreamer. I believed I could overcome any challenge. Even in moments of self-doubt, I find solace in a line from my favorite Gospel song by Donnie McClurkin: “We fall down, but we get up.” This phrase reminds me that no matter how many times life knocks me down, I have the strength within to rise up, move forward, and persevere.
One valuable piece of advice is to embrace anything that brings you peace and allows you to connect with your inner self. Equally important is to surround yourself with a supportive tribe of friends and family who uplift you, challenge you, and love you just the way you are.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents were the foundation of my values – education, spirituality, respect, and kindness. They were always there for me, supporting me in every endeavor. They taught me to aim high and believe in myself.
Though they’re no longer with me, I can still feel their presence, cheering me on and showering me with love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.candacestribling.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candacestriblingjewelry
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candacestriblingjewelry
Image Credits
headshot photo – Melody Smith Portraits product photos- Nina Wilson
