We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kristin Sensenbach a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kristin, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
Developing the ability to take risks goes hand in hand with continuing to developing my self-confidence. Visualizing the dream (or risk) has always been the easy part, but my key to taking the first step required more work on myself than it did on my business. After growing tired of the same anxious conversations in my head about when and how to start a business, I had to take inventory on how much I felt the risk actually impacted me. After going through a series of questions, I was surprised by the results. I would ask myself questions like, “What is the outcome I am so afraid of, and if realized, do I really think I won’t be able to bounce back from it?” I had complete imposter syndrome when I first decided to put my art out there, but as I continue to challenge myself, I also continue to prove that these risks are not only worth it but I continue to learn more about what I am capable of.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I have always had a deep love for graphic design, greeting cards, stationery and even the post office. For years I would save old cards, pens, unusual stamps or spend nights pinning away different cards and stationary sets on Pinterest. Finally, after a few years of “one day and maybe ” statements I decided to dive into that world a bit further and created Garden Fox Goods in September of 2023. Garden Fox Goods focuses on greeting cards and designs that I would describe as feminine, whimsical, modern and playful. I recently rolled out a Valentine and Galentine collection which is meant to be both fun loving and supportive to the partners, lovers, friends and family in our lives. I am looking forward to adding more seasonal cards and stationery for spring. Looking ahead I have my sights set on some pretty big goals and offerings as the year unfolds!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Persistence, positivity and an organized schedule. I would start by saying persistence is the most important quality to have because as you persist, as you not only to develop skills, but by show up you create confidence in yourself and you create content for your goal, in my case designs for my cards. If you suffer from imposter system this is a huge one. Remaining optimistic and keeping a positive mindset when sales are slow, “likes” on social media are few and no one seems to care about what you’ve got going on is vital not only for your mental health, but for the growth of your business. You have to remind yourself that things take time and that no one else should get a vote on your happiness and the direction you take. Keeping positive is your way of advocating for all the hard work you have down and celebrating what you continue to give. An organized scheduled is a must. Outside of my Etsy store I continue to work full-time. raise my two-year-old and spend time with my husband, friends and family. Being realistic with my schedule allows me to set time for my goals and ensures I have some time to take breaks, refresh, and enjoy life.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert. Her voice and experience really resonate with me as I think she balances nurturing your creative side and demanding action and accountability.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gardenfoxgoods.etsy.com
- Instagram: gardenfoxgoods
