We recently connected with Amanda Parlin and have shared our conversation below.
Amanda, 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.
I think no matter where you are in your journey, there is some small part that is constantly feeling like you’re not measuring up. Comparing yourself to where you are, or aren’t and where you should be. I, like many others, just need to remind myself that I am where I should be. I’m meant to fail or succeed and learn from that experience in order to power through. I am meant to falter or feel that sense of being overwhelmed in order to better execute and grow down the line. Regardless, we all have our weak hours, but just know, it’s easier for most to boast about the good, and rarely do they ever highlight the woes.
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?
The business began while working on occupational projects with my daughter. Gross motor skills reflected in beading bracelets, and my therapy was all things macrame – an art I’ve been doing for over 15 years. To better understand more intricate knots, I sought out crocheting and began creating works per my little ones desires.
I fell in love. Many will advise to “niche down” and focus on one or the other, but that isn’t who I am. A. Parlin Project has and will always place focus on mental health awareness with long term goals of giving back.
A business born from two neurodivergent people; if you try to place us in a box, we will simply create four more while inside. So we’ll continue to create strings and cute things.
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?
Commitment: you don’t stop even when it gets tough… and it will get tough. Whenever I feel myself slipping, I remember why I’m here and what my end goal is and I keep going.
Determination: when branching out to get your name [business] out there, you will face rejection. There will be similar brands out there who’ve already got a foot in the door. Don’t give up. Be humble, be kind, and be patient, but don’t give up.
Strength: It takes a strong person to give up a regular 9 to 5 to work close to 60 hours a week. Late nights, time away from family and loved ones, but that strength will pay off. The greatest pleasure comes when we go through a little pain.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Take a step back and find a supportive ear to speak to. I have found I find solutions quicker and easier if I hear myself talk about them out loud.
Contact Info:
- Website: aparlinproject.etsy.com
- Instagram: a.parlin.project
- Facebook: a.parlin.project
- Youtube: aparlinproject
