We were lucky to catch up with Natalie Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.
Natalie, 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.
I realized that impostor syndrome is made up. It’s the patriarchal system used to keep women and minorities from realizing their full potential. When a seed of doubt is implanted, it can take root. My value is in how I live, what I share, and how I react to the forces trying to keep me down.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I design modern crochet garments and accessories. I also teach virtual and in-person classes. My goal has always been to give makers the confidence to learn something new, to build their skills. My designs are unique and seem complicated, but are easy to make with a little knowledge.
Right now, the biggest thing I have coming is a masterclass with Knit Stars. Knit Stars is a learning platform that brings the best teachers to your home in a documentary-style format. There are 15 instructors total. I am one of the first 5 dedicated Crochet Stars. It’s pretty exciting. I get to spread the love of my craft a little further. This is the 10th anniversary season with a big give-back. If we reach 10,000 enrollees, the donations to each of our charities is multiplied by 10!
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?
The first is a willingness to invest in yourself. I am consistently investing in building my skills. I have the crochet part mastered, but there’s always more to learn. Take the course, find a mentor, and do the work.
The second is a willingness to be bad at something. Failure isn’t permanent. Everyone starts somewhere, and if you quit because you think you’re bad at it, you will never be good at it.
No does not mean forever. It may be a not now or this particular thing isn’t right for you. Keep going until you find the right yes. This means saying no to things that don’t align with your values or goals. It’s okay to say no.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take inventory of what needs to be done. Then I decide their level of importance. I say no to the things that will bring more stress than joy. For the things that absolutely need to be done, I do them first and reward myself with doing something purely for the joy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://detroitknots.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detroitknots
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