Fake it till you make it, right?
After you check off a huge accomplishment, do you ever feel like you didn’t deserve it? Like when you work your f*cking ass off and somehow you don’t feel like you worked hard enough? This, my friends, is imposter syndrome and we collectively need to rise above it.
According to Psychology Today: People who struggle with imposter syndrome believe that they are undeserving of their achievements and the high esteem in which they are, in fact, generally held. They feel that they aren’t as competent or intelligent as others might think—and that soon enough, people will discover the truth about them. Those with imposter syndrome are often well accomplished; they may hold high office or have numerous academic degrees.
As a first offender of this, here’s some thoughts that you might find useful too…
No one has any idea what TF they’re doing.
Even if they seem like they have their sh*t together, most of the time everyone is just winging it. Once you accept that you don’t have all of the answers right now, you can take more risks into the unknown that can really push you somewhere great. You don’t want “what if” playing over and over in your head from playing it safe.
Get out of your own f*cking way.
Never underestimate yourself, ok!? If you believe you’re the right person for the job, or want to go on a solo trip for the first time, just f*cking go for it. Who cares if you look stupid or cringe? Have you been on TikTok? Cringe is cool. They say we’re our own worst enemy and most of the time, it’s true. Ignore that anxiety, trust your gut and see where that gets you.
Most of the time confidence is more important than actual skills.
You probably have that one coworker that is a great talker, can sell anything but is truly not the best at the actual skill set – but it doesn’t matter. People invest in people. Be confident in your words and just believe in your damn self.
You don’t need validation from anyone.
Ah, social media…the place where so many of us seek validation and approval from people that we don’t even know. Whether it’s online or IRL, be proud of yourself and if someone doesn’t like it, f*ck ‘em. Never let someone minimize your hard work or make you feel unsatisfactory.
Comparing yourself to others is a losing game.
This is hard I know, but trust me when I say that it will push you a few steps back if you fall into this trap. Life isn’t a contest and everyone should be celebrated. If your friends aren’t there to support you in your highs then maybe they’re not really your friends…
Be good,
JB
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