Mindy Young of Indy Bloom Design is someone who shows that you don’t need to be medically diagnosed to identify that you have anxiety or depression. It takes a bit of work, yes, but you can eventually find your healing routines and support systems. I always admire someone who can talk openly about mental health, and Mindy is just that person. Mindy was an absolute pleasure to interview.
Please introduce yourself.
Hi, I'm Mindy Young, Designer and Owner of Indy Bloom Design! I'm a self taught Textile Designer who has been in business for 6 years, creating beautiful watercolor and digital designs that I sell on Fabric, Wallpaper, and more!
I THRIVE on teaching and sharing how I have achieved my success with others! Creative business talk is my jam, and I love helping others in their path to success! Outside of the design world, you'll find me living on a farm, with 4 kids, and I married a cowboy. Life is good.
Tell us a little about your journey as a designer.
Being a self-taught Artist and Surface Pattern Designer has not always been easy! I started creating for my newborn daughter, when I couldn't find anything on the market I was looking for. When I posted the florals I painted on Facebook, people loved them and asked me to sell them to them also! So I googled, " How to sell your designs on fabric and wallpaper online," and Spoonflower popped up! I uploaded my designs, and after successfully selling on Spoonflower for the last 6 years, I have branched out to teaching others how I have been so successful as a self-taught surface pattern designer. I love helping others and love seeing others achieve their goals and dreams! If I can do this job, so can you!
Of all the wonderful art you've created, do you have a favourite? What's the story behind this art piece? Why is it your favourite?
My very first design, "Peachy Blossoms"! It's the design that started it all for me! This is the design I made for my baby girl.
How do you add a dash of your personality into your work?
I LOVE anything peachy, pink, colorful, and girly. I'd say if you look at my work, that is exactly what you see!
Why are you passionate about mental health?
Taking care of YOU is always the LEAST selfish thing you can do in life. You can't pour from an empty cup.
How do you think an artist can raise awareness for mental health?
Talking about it! When we share, and hear others share, it knits our hearts together. We are not alone.
How does a typical day look like for you, as an artist clinically diagnosed with depression and anxiety?
I have never been clinically diagnosed with depression or anxiety, but I know I have it. I do find that the more "to do things" that are on my list to get done, the heavier I feel and the more unmotivated I feel, aka...... A procrastinator! I'm a really good one! Probably, the best! But I have found if I wake up, exercise, meditate/read, and set the heavy things on my plate very first, I naturally have more energy, less anxiety, and can accomplish more. The times I find myself just sitting, staring at a screen, scrolling on Instagram, etc, are the times I need to get outside and go for a walk, play with my kids, or just take me time. It's ok to put things on hold for yourself. You and your business can't function without taking care of you first.
How do you keep yourself constantly motivated and inspired as a designer?
I get outside, a lot. And take LOTS of pictures; 15,000 is my current count on my iPhone! Pictures are things you can save, mix-and-match, and get inspiration from later. I also make sure that I have a fresh mind by getting the heavy things done first in the day/week, then I can play and be inspired the rest of the day/week.
How do you deal with anxiety and self-doubt?
The best way I deal with Anxiety and Self-doubt, is I show up. I show up everyday, even if it's in my pajamas. The more you show up, the more gets done and the long list of things to do goes away. I also find showing up in every aspect of your life helps keep you on track and accomplishing goals. Which makes you feel more confident because you're becoming someone you want to be!
Any tips for tackling creative block that stems from anxiety?
Adding to what I stated above, find the things that set your soul on fire. I love photography, being with my family, sunsets, walks, beach vacations, etc. Find those things and do them a lot. Take time daily or weekly to turn off all electronics. No music, podcasts, books, movies, and just listen to your little voice inside that gets hushed in the daily grind. The voice is speaking loudly if you listen. Give it the time to speak to you in the ways you feel closest to it.
Is there a book/blog/podcast you would recommend for fellow artists/designers?
I love anything Amy Porterfield, Jenna Kutcher, Bonnie Christine, Jenna Rainey, Emily Jeffords, and really anything self help.
If you could give one piece of advice to artists and designers living with mental health conditions, what would it be?
You're not the only one! Surround yourself with others like you. Don't be afraid to talk about your bad days. Everyone seems to only talk about the good days on social media. It's ok to show insecurity. You'd be surprised how many women/men feel just like you. Connect with those who can uplift, inspire, and help you through your dark days. They come, but don't last long with a strong support system around you!
