We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lydia Korson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Lydia , 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.
Imposter syndrome is a prevalent phenomenon that many individuals face, and it can be especially daunting when you are a multi-degree holder and a business owner like myself. As the founder of Wilde Lou Studio, I have experienced moments where I questioned my abilities and felt like an imposter in both academia and entrepreneurship.
When asked, “How did you overcome imposter syndrome?” my first instinct was, “Who says I have?” Imposter syndrome doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s essential to recognize that it can be an ongoing battle. Instead of focusing on how to entirely conquer it, I’ve learned to embrace and manage it, acknowledging that it’s okay to feel like I don’t have all the answers.
Wilde Lou Studio began as a creative outlet and passion project, and I never imagined it would grow into what it is today. While I was earning my graphic design degree, I started with polymer clay earrings as a way to destress and make something creative that wasn’t related to school, but my business has since expanded to include various products, officially licensed work, and even design services, all where I can express my creative side, attention to detail, and artistic style. While my work centers around earthy and relaxing illustrations, imposter syndrome often crept in, leading me to question whether my art was good enough, unique enough, or if I truly deserved the success I was experiencing.
Throughout my journey, I’ve found a few strategies that have helped me navigate imposter syndrome:
1. Acknowledging My Accomplishments: Rather than downplaying my achievements, I’ve learned to celebrate them. Earning my bachelor’s in graphic design and nearly completing my master’s while managing a successful business are significant accomplishments, and I remind myself of this regularly.
2. Embracing Vulnerability: Instead of trying to appear flawless and all-knowing, I’ve learned to embrace vulnerability. Sharing my doubts and struggles with trusted friends, mentors, or fellow entrepreneurs has allowed me to gain perspective and receive support when I needed it most.
3. Setting Realistic Expectations: Running a business while pursuing multiple degrees and working full-time requires careful time management and setting realistic expectations. Accepting that I can’t do everything perfectly all the time has helped alleviate some of the pressure I placed on myself.
4. Cultivating a Growth Mindset: Embracing a growth mindset means seeing challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement. This shift in mindset has enabled me to view imposter syndrome as a natural part of the journey, rather than a sign of inadequacy.
5. Finding Supportive Communities: Being part of creative and entrepreneurial communities has been invaluable. Connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar struggles has provided encouragement, motivation, and a sense of belonging.
While I may not have entirely overcome imposter syndrome, these strategies have helped me navigate its challenges and embrace it as a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey. As the founder of Wilde Lou Studio, I’ve learned that my passion for art and design outweighs any self-doubt, and I am committed to continuing my growth as both a business owner and a graphic designer.
Running a business while pursuing multiple degrees and working full-time has undoubtedly been demanding, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Balancing academic pursuits, business responsibilities, and personal life requires careful planning and self-discipline. However, the diverse experiences have enriched both my academic and entrepreneurial endeavors, as I bring new knowledge and perspectives to each domain.
As I look back on my journey, I am grateful for the challenges and imposter syndrome moments, as they have shaped me into a more resilient and adaptable individual. While I cannot predict what lies ahead, I am confident that I will continue to embrace the uncertainties and growth opportunities, both in my business and academic pursuits, as I strive to become the best version of myself.
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?
Hello, lovely readers! I’m Lydia, the creative force behind Wilde Lou Studio, a cozy and light haven sprinkled with a hint of Wilde charm…
Wilde Lou Studio started unexpectedly during a time of struggle and exhaustion. Amidst the demands of accelerated online college and two jobs, I found solace in creating art for the pure joy of it. It all began with polymer clay earrings, a passion that took hold of my heart, and I dedicated countless hours perfecting my craft. Little did I know that my creations would soon turn into a beloved brand.
What sets Wilde Lou Studio apart is my unwavering belief in the power of art despite the challenges I faced growing up. Refusing to conform to the notion of the “starving artist,” I took daring steps to prove those ideals wrong. In the midst of a global pandemic, while juggling two jobs and pursuing an accelerated degree, I transformed my passion into a thriving business.
As a child at heart, I find joy in bringing to life art that sparks wonder and evokes a sense of magic in all who behold it. Drawing inspiration from my gypsy ancestry, my art celebrates a wandering spirit that finds solace in the beauty of nature and the mysteries of the universe. It’s a celebration of life’s adventures, where each piece captures the essence of untamed wanderlust and a deep connection with the world around us.
Embracing a multi-passionate approach, Wilde Lou Studio thrives on diversity and the continuous exploration of artistic expression. From polymer clay accessories like earrings, and keychains to glassware, mugs, stickers, custom illustrations, and more – everything you find at Wilde Lou is an authentic reflection of my artistic soul.
I take great pride in crafting jewelry with sensitive ears in mind. As someone with this issue myself, I recognized the need for lightweight, hypoallergenic earrings that wouldn’t irritate or weigh down sensitive earlobes. Each piece is meticulously handmade with nickel-free and surgical steel posts, ensuring both style and comfort.
Transparency and authenticity are the cornerstones of my brand. I take pride in fostering a sense of community over competition, openly sharing my journey, techniques, and tips with my audience. From weekly live Q&A sessions to sharing insights into my creative process, I want everyone to feel welcome and inspired.
What truly makes me proud is that Wilde Lou Studio is a reflection of who I am. From my online presence to my design work, I remain true to myself and engage with my audience in an open and honest manner. This journey has connected me with incredible individuals from all over, and I am immensely grateful for the support system of family, friends, and my loving boyfriend, who have been with me every step of the way.
In every creation, you’ll find pure passion. Each piece I bring to life is a labor of love, inspired by nature, human forms, and beautifully muted colors. My ultimate goal is to turn this passion into a full-time pursuit, and until then, I’m eagerly looking forward to the surprises and delights that lie just around the corner.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with me, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Wilde Lou Studio!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back on my journey, there are three things that really stood out and made a big difference: resilience, continuous learning, and the power of community.
Resilience has been my secret sauce throughout this adventure. Believe me, I faced my fair share of challenges and setbacks, but I never let them keep me down for long. I learned to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. It’s all about bouncing back stronger, learning valuable lessons, and pushing forward with even more determination. So, to all you creative souls starting your journey, my advice is to keep that resilience close to your heart. Embrace every bump in the road as an opportunity to grow and learn. Trust me, you’ll come out even more fabulous on the other side.
Now, let’s talk about continuous learning—oh boy, what a game-changer! The creative world is like a vast treasure trove of ideas and inspiration. So, I made it a point to stay curious and open to new ideas. I devoted time to improving my craft, exploring fresh techniques, and soaking up inspiration from all kinds of sources. My advice to you, dear friend, is to keep that curiosity alive. Dive into workshops, read books, and connect with mentors who light up that creative spark within you. Remember, every piece of knowledge you gather adds depth and richness to your artistry.
Oh, but let me tell you, my heart was filled with warmth when I found my creative community. Building a supportive network of fellow artists, entrepreneurs, and wonderful souls has been a game-changer. We uplift each other, share ideas, and celebrate our collective achievements. So, here’s my golden advice: surround yourself with people who believe in your journey. Seek out communities, both online and offline, where you can share your passion, learn from others, and feel at home. Trust me; having that kind of support system will make all the difference during both the highs and the not-so-highs of your creative adventure.
So, there you have it—a little glimpse into what makes my creative journey so special. Resilience, continuous learning, and a strong sense of community have been my guiding lights, and I’m here to remind you that they can light up your path too. With passion, perseverance, and a sprinkle of magic, your creative journey will unfold into something truly extraordinary. So, keep shining, keep learning, and surround yourself with amazing people who believe in your dreams. I’m cheering you on all the way!
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely, my friend! I am absolutely thrilled about the idea of collaborating with other incredible creatives—it’s truly one of the most exciting aspects of my journey! So, if you’re reading this and thinking, “Hey, that sounds like me!”—well, you’re in the right place!
Let’s dive into the kind of people I’m looking to collaborate with. While I’m open to connecting with all sorts of awesome individuals, I have a special place in my heart for fellow women creatives who share a similar artistic style. You know the vibes I’m talking about—those boho, eye-catching, and handmade elements that make our creations stand out in a crowd. If you’re all about that too, then we’re going to make some real magic together!
But that’s not all—I’m all for synergy and exciting partnerships. If you have a business that complements mine, let’s join forces and create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast with an eye for capturing the essence of art, a makeup magician who knows how to elevate a look with a touch of creativity, or a fellow jewelry business owner with a flair for handcrafted treasures, we have the potential to create unforgettable collaborations.
Oh, and calling all clay creators, whether you create jewelry or the tools we use —yes, you too! Your incredible tools are like the magic wands to my creations, and I’d be overjoyed to collaborate with you. Together, we can explore new dimensions of design and take our artistry to the next level.
So, how can you connect with me and explore the potential for collaboration? Easy – you can reach out to me through my website, shoot me a message on social media, or even drop me a friendly email. I’m always eager to connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passion for art and creativity.
Let’s not forget the essence of collaboration—it’s not just about making cool stuff (although that’s a big part of it!), but it’s also about building a community of support, inspiration, and growth. Together, we can celebrate each other’s successes, navigate the artistic journey, and uplift one another as we chase our dreams.
So, if you’re feeling that spark of excitement I’m feeling, don’t hesitate for a moment! Reach out, and let’s embark on an artistic adventure together. Let’s make some art that brings joy to the world and leaves a little bit of magic in every heart we touch.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wildeloustudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildeloustudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildeloustudio
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydia-korson-b39800128
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTdExYbnB/ Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/wildeloustudio
Image Credits
Wilde Lou Studio
