#8 Confessions of a Recovering Imposter: My Journey to Owning My Awesome
Rewriting the Narrative: Why You Are Enough (and How to Believe It)
Ever feel like a fraud, even when you're rocking it? You're not alone. Welcome to the not-so-glamorous world of imposter syndrome.This article explores my battles with imposter syndrome, that sneaky voice whispering doubt, and the amazing advice I gathered from fellow warriors.
Remember that kid who aced every test, won debates, and danced like nobody was watching? That was me. Then, college hit. I dove headfirst into computers, a field that screamed "logic or leave it." Choosing this field which lacked learner diversity, planted the first seed of imposter syndrome. Apparently, rocking the college fashion scene meant you couldn't be in the tech field.
It reared its ugly head again when I became a certified yoga instructor, then an artist exhibiting internationally. Even with a full-time teaching career and a stack of degrees, my skin color made me feel like an outsider in the field.
Enter the Imposter Slayer Crew ⚔️
Thankfully, this journey wasn't solo. Here's the wisdom I received when I invited stories from the community:
Challenge the Welcome Wagon: Aman, a multi-passionate developer and educator, flips the script. Why should you feel like an imposter when you have the skills? It's the field that needs to be more inclusive, not you!
Befriend the Voice, Then Shut it Up: Gina Marescia, a leadership coach, and author offers practical tactics. Talk to that voice like a worried child, acknowledge its concern, then drown it out with affirmations of your skills and support network.
Action is the Antidote: Sometimes, overthinking is the enemy. Keiko, founder of Breath of Life Ice Bath, emphasizes that just taking a step, however small, is better than staying frozen. She swears by breath-work and cold meditation.
Celebrate Your Journey: Keep a "win" list! Art director and illustrator Sravya and architect and illustrator Laura , recommend tracking your progress. Remember how far you've come, not where others are on their path.Everyone moves at their own pace and a lot of the times in the creative business it’s about being at the right place at the right time.
Separate Fact from Feeling: Rekha, a registered dietician and founder of Menon Wellness, reminds us that self-compassion is key. Mistakes are learning opportunities, not reasons to doubt yourself.
Here's my takeaway: We All Have It.But it’s time to rewrite the narrative. We are all capable, worthy, and constantly evolving. Let's celebrate the journey, ditch the self-doubt, and collectively slay the imposter monster for good!
Feeling inspired? Share your imposter-conquering tips in the comments!
