Facing Fear, Finding Confidence: Winning My First ASID Design Award
It’s incredible how life pushes us out of our comfort zones, often in the most unexpected ways. Winning my first design award from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) was one of those moments. But the journey to that win wasn’t just about the award—it was about learning to trust my instincts, embrace challenges, and lean into faith when fear tried to hold me back.
Stepping Into the Unknown
When I first heard about the ASID design competition, I felt a tug to enter. But let’s be honest—I didn’t want to do it. Not because I didn’t believe in the work I’d done, but because the idea of putting my designs out there for judgment was daunting.
The deadline was February 1st, and I kept procrastinating. Every time I sat down at my computer to start the submission process, I’d feel nauseous. Between organizing my new design studio cabinetry—thank you, California Closets!—and just plain avoidance, I found every excuse to put it off.
Then one day, I decided enough was enough. I had to do the scary thing.
The Leap of Faith
Submitting my work felt like standing at the edge of a cliff, unsure of what lay below. But I hit "submit" anyway. In the weeks that followed, I couldn’t shake a vivid vision I had—it was an email congratulating me for winning. I even went searching for the email, only to realize it hadn’t actually happened yet. It was a moment of faith and clarity, and I shared it with a friend, laughing nervously about the idea of winning.
Two months later, that email arrived.
When Dreams Become Reality
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would win my first time entering. The feeling of seeing my design recognized in such a meaningful way was overwhelming. It wasn’t just about the award; it was about proving to myself that I could rise above fear and self-doubt.
I look back on that experience now with so much gratitude. God pushed me to take a leap of faith, showing me that courage often leads to growth, and growth can lead to incredible opportunities.
Lessons Learned
Winning the ASID award wasn’t just a professional milestone—it was a personal revelation. I learned to:
Do the scary things: Fear is often a sign of growth. If it feels big and overwhelming, it’s probably worth doing.
Trust in God’s timing: That vision wasn’t just a fluke—it was a reminder to lean on faith and trust the process.
Celebrate the wins: No matter how big or small, achievements deserve recognition. They’re stepping stones on the path to your dreams.
What About You?
Have you ever faced a challenge that felt bigger than you? Maybe it’s time to take that leap of faith. Whether it’s redesigning your dream space or tackling a goal that’s been on your heart, let’s work together to create something extraordinary.
What’s the “scary thing” you’ve been putting off? Let’s talk about it and make your vision a reality. Contact us today to get started.
