WE Rise: Stephanie Armstrong – From Stroke Survivor to Thriving Entrepreneur

This week, we're honored to feature Stephanie Armstrong, founder of Moxie Creative Studios, a woman whose story is a testament to fortitude, the power of a beginner's mind, and the importance of community. Stephanie's journey is a powerful reminder that even the most devastating setbacks can be catalysts for incredible growth and purpose.

A Miraculous Recovery and a Bold Decision

Stephanie's entrepreneurial journey began with an event that would change her life forever. At just 29, she suffered a carotid artery dissection and a stroke, an injury with a 97% mortality rate. Facing end-of-life decisions, she experienced a miraculous recovery. But instead of accepting permanent disability, as her doctor suggested, Stephanie chose to pursue her dream of starting her own business. "I couldn't do it and give up my dream of starting my own business without even trying," she shares. This unwavering determination led her to launch her building business in late 2015, going full-time by June 2016.

Facing the Challenges: Team Building, Cash Flow, and the Mental Game

The early days weren't without their hurdles. Stephanie candidly admits that team building and cash flow were significant challenges. Her initial approach to leadership – wanting to be more of a friend than a boss – proved unsustainable. She also grappled with financial complexities, lacking the "financial savvy" she needed.

But Stephanie's commitment to a "beginner's mind" became her superpower. She actively sought out knowledge, mentors, training, and solutions. She learned to set clear expectations for her team, taking on a mentor role, and found trusted individuals to guide her through the financial aspects of her business.

"Entrepreneurs are just really good problem solvers," Stephanie emphasizes. "We have to get good at the mental game. We can't view problems as a reflection of our failure or allow them to erode our confidence. They are the sword that sharpens us!"

The Non-Linear Path to Success: Wisdom from the Journey

One of the most valuable lessons Stephanie has learned is that the entrepreneurial journey is anything but linear. "It's up and down and left and right and in a loop and backwards and quantum leap and then an unexpected backtrack – that's the process!" she exclaims.

This acceptance of the unpredictable nature of business is crucial for any entrepreneur. Stephanie stresses the importance of perseverance, accountability, grace, and grit.

"Do you still show up even when you don't feel like it? Do you take accountability? Do you give yourself grace? Do you have grit? I promise you, all of those questions will be answered on your journey."

Advice for Her Younger Self (and All of Us)

If she could offer advice to her younger self, Stephanie would say: "You are far more capable than you believe. It doesn't matter where you came from or what you went through... Let go of the belief that you aren't enough – you are MORE than enough." This powerful message of self-belief resonates deeply with the core values of WE Rise.

The Importance of Balance and Self-Care

Stephanie is also a strong advocate for self-care and maintaining balance, recognizing that it's not always perfect. She emphasizes the importance of having a "self-care management process," which for her includes physical activity (the gym), mindfulness practices (meditation/yoga), proper nutrition, and adequate rest.

"I definitely understand at this point in my life that your wellness is non-negotiable," she states. "If you don't mind it – it will mind you."

Motivation Through Competition and a Positive Mindset

Stephanie's inherent competitiveness fuels her motivation. When faced with challenges, she becomes even more driven to find solutions. This self-validating process builds strength, confidence, and self-worth.

She also cultivates a positive mindset through daily mindfulness, meditation, positive self-talk, and carefully curating her mental, spiritual, and emotional inputs. "I'm intentionally flooding myself with positive, empowering messages," she explains.

Daily Rituals for Success:

Stephanie's daily practices reflect her commitment to holistic well-being:

• Gratitude: Expressing gratitude out loud daily.

• Mindfulness: Mastering her mind.

• Fitness: Moving her body daily.

• Nutrition: Fueling her body with proper nutrients.

• Rest: Knowing when to unplug and recharge.

  
  

Role Models and the Definition of a "Wise Entrepreneur"

Stephanie draws inspiration from women like Michelle Obama and Maya Angelou, admiring their strength, intelligence, adaptability, and ability to maintain kindness and compassion. She defines a "wise entrepreneur" as someone who is "always learning, always growing, knows he/she knows nothing, stays humble, open-minded, open to growth."

Community, Mentorship, and Collaboration

Community and mentorship have been invaluable to Stephanie's journey. "Without the wisdom, guidance and support of some incredible human beings, I never would have healed my trauma and gained the confidence and clarity I needed to build my business and myself," she acknowledges.

Her advice for building strong business relationships? "Always start with the relationship – not the business." She emphasizes the importance of investing in people who invest in you and giving without expectation. Collaboration is key: "Build your network. Genuinely look for opportunities to support one another. Give referrals. Give feedback. Give FIRST."

Actionable Step and Connecting with Stephanie

Stephanie encourages our audience to take this actionable step: "Reach out to a fellow entrepreneur that you could potentially collaborate with and schedule a coffee/call/zoom to discuss."

You can connect with Stephanie Armstrong and learn more about Moxie Creative Studios at:

• Instagram: @iamstephaniearmstrong @moxiecreativestudios

• Website: www.MoxieCreativeStudios.com

Stephanie Armstrong's story is a powerful reminder that adaptability, a commitment to learning, and a strong sense of purpose can lead to extraordinary success, even in the face of adversity. Her dedication to community, collaboration, and self-care provides a valuable blueprint for all thriving entrepreneurs seeking to build businesses that thrive.

Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your inspiring journey with the WE Rise community! We rise together.