Meet Stephanie Michaud

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Stephanie Michaud. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Stephanie, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Despite the relatively quick online success that I’ve achieved for “AstroKnotty” as a fiber artist, I often have dueling thoughts and emotions. Especially in an overly saturated crochet market, I have doubts how I could be special or different. There are times when I’m convinced my success was just luck or good timing with the algorithm. This negative self-talk can lead me to invalidate my hard work, skills, creativity and minimize my actual accomplishments–something I imagine other artists experience as well.

In fact, social media has played a large role in my personal experience with imposter syndrome. We live in a time where fixating on likes/views/follower-count can cause us to equate success with numbers. We constantly compare ourselves and abilities to others, which can lead to disappointing and inadequate views of our own work. If I would have listened to those doubts, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

To overcome this, I’ve developed several coping strategies that I will recommend to those facing similar challenges of self-worth. First, don’t let thoughts of failure prevent you from creating. Embrace stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new designs without looking at your work as inherently “good” or “bad.” Art is art! Additionally, create a positive dialogue with yourself. Remind yourself regularly of the accomplishments and skills you’ve developed along the journey–no matter how small. Furthermore, allow comparison to be a constructive tool that sets a baseline and promotes learning. Instead of tearing yourself down for perceived lack-of, use challenge and criticism as an opportunity for growth!

Overcoming imposter syndrome has helped me have a healthier relationship with my work and creative journey, and ultimately build a better brand. Remember, find joy and satisfaction in the process, not just in the gain or reward.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

My name is Stephanie Michaud, and I am the independent creative mind behind AstroKnotty; my small, online shop specializing in what I like to playfully describe as “otherworldly fiber arts.” What started as a personal hobby during college has grown into a brand offering handmade crochet clothing, macrame accessories, and now my best-selling digital download tutorials.

While I had every intention of utilizing my neuroscience and sociology degree to pursue a doctorate, life had other plans. Over the last four years, I’ve built a recognizable and respected online business with original, freehand crochet designs–a skill I’ve learned is not universally possessed even among those with decades of experience. Embracing this calling as an artist and business owner has allowed me to continue working in healthcare, while also running a successful side business that generates both active and passive income. This dual career path not only provides stability and flexibility but also satisfies my deep desire to create and share my art. The best of both worlds, which I am eternally grateful.

I’ve always had a passion for experimenting with my fashion and self-expression. From a young age, I enjoyed composition writing, theater and role-playing games—all of which allowed me to step into different characters and roles. These experiences helped plant the seeds and shape my creative endeavors today. As an adult, I am proud to design crochet tutorials and products that embrace the child-like nature within us all, and empower others to express themselves freely with wearable art. Not only do I crochet custom designs that bring dreams to life, but I also teach others to create their own dream designs. I’ve had an incredible privilege of watching beginners grow and blossom as they learn the craft, and hearing the success stories of my customers, knowing I’ve played even a small role in their journey, makes me so happy. By sharing my knowledge and passion, I can contribute to an amazing community of artists and learners around the world.

In the future, I am excited to expand AstroKnotty and explore more routes for artistic expression and connection. Fiber arts allows me endless creative freedom and I look forward to sharing my vision further with the world. It is my goal to focus more on online tutorials, with plans to publish pattern books and lead virtual classrooms. While at times stressful and difficult to time-manage, I am thankful for the opportunities that social media platforms have offered for my small businesses.

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?

Throughout my journey, I’ve learned valuable lessons that have profoundly influenced both my personal and professional growth. First, embracing and adapting to challenges faced, especially in keeping up with trends and competing with a crowded market, has been crucial. These obstacles often lead to some of the most surprising, yet exciting opportunities for your business and help with brand success and longevity. Do not fear unexpected challenges; view them in a more positive light as tools to learn and grow.

Furthermore, when running a business that relies on online traffic and interactions, it is essential to prioritize your mental and emotional health. Personally developing a healthier relationship with social media, in regards to time and usage, has allowed me to free myself of distractions and the temptation to negatively compare and compete. Taking breaks and recharging your creativity without giving in to the pressures of constant online activity is important to avoiding burnout and a loss of passion. In fact, some of my most productive and proudest designs were created when I let go of financial and social pressures and instead embraced the creative process in the moment. You must find balance in your well-being and work-load in order to have long-term success and happiness.

For those early in their business journey, I highly recommend engaging with your community and collaborating with supportive peers. Surround yourself with people who can not only provide valuable feedback and advice, but also inspire and spark your creativity. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from more experienced mentors in your field, and take constructive criticism well to improve your skills–just remember to credit those who have helped when contributing to your work.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

While my previous focus was on creating crochet clothing products, I’ve recently had a pivotal change in my career path. Within the last few years, the market for my fiber niche had become saturated with new self-taught artists and small businesses emerging daily. In order to combat both large fast-fashion and small competition, I’ve had to switch my brand’s focus to remain relevant and distinct.

I’ve since switched to offer downloads and instructions for my original crochet designs and patterns. Now, rather than relying on custom orders and physical purchases, I’ve built a name for myself by providing digital tutorials. I used to struggle keeping up with trends and competing prices, so transitioning to the “trendsetter” myself has been a dream.

I’m really thankful for this challenge and force to change routes, as it’s allowed me to bring new life and passion into my business. I have a new freedom to create without pressures of competing with other artists in my niche. I also have a more consistent customer base, with both new and seasoned crochet artists, and I’m able to reach a broader audience around the world with my tutorials. Embracing a more digital business is not ever what I expected, but I’m grateful for the obstacles that led me to evolve and adapt AstroKnotty.

As I said before, you should not fear change or shut-down when challenges emerge. Experiment with new ideas and techniques and continue to build your skill sets. Learn something new as often as you can, and be willing to adapt with technology and marketing trends in order to stay relevant and up-to-date.

The internet is a fast-paced place to have a business, so it’s important to be resilient and emotionally balanced. Regardless of the trials and tribulations that may come with your journey, don’t lose yourself along the way. Stay true to your passions. We need more leaders, not followers!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.AstroKnotty.com
• Instagram: @Astro.Knotty
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hempbysteph/