Battling FEAR and Imposter Syndrome

Some of the most successful people don't realize it. Especially when what made them successful is no longer in the cards.

I was one of the youngest editors at a major daily newspaper. I was putting my education to use and fulfilling a career goal, but it never felt right. And then I was let go.?

I went back to school for an MFA in screenwriting, and have written screenplays I'm quite proud of. But only one, a short, has been picked up (although it did win a couple local awards).?

I then became an adjunct professor, and wholeheartedly enjoyed teaching college and continuing education students how to write effectively. But for many years, I was "just" an adjunct. Plus, why wasn't I writing more of my own stuff?

I managed profitable sales and marketing teams at prominent reputation management firms. I absolutely loved being a mentor and trainer to some extremely talented people. But I also realized that the companies didn't share the same values and ethics as me.

I've written for dozens of recognizable publications, but instead fretted that it wasn't good enough, because I was doing it as a freelancer, and always hustling for the next project.

So what was my problem??

FEAR!

That would be: False Evidence Appearing Real.

My inner critic was keeping score. It began to completely alter my sense of self-worth, and, as a result, became a self-fulfilling prophecy. Because we become what we continuously think about.?

Sometimes we get so caught up in what's not working for us in the moment, that we lose sight as to what got us there in the first place. Or we struggle to assume an identity that we can fully embrace.

It was the primary reason why I became a solopreneur. I grew tired of being a supporting character in someone else's story. I was ready to become the hero of my own.

Ironically, taking that leap has only led to more bouts of Imposter Syndrome! What do I know about running a business? What value do I provide??

The reality is that there’s plenty of evidence that supports my abilities. It’s just hard to see when you don’t have enough wins (i.e.: paying clients) to support that narrative.?

But here’s the thing: It's not about me or my past titles and accomplishments.?

It's about doing what feels right. It's about catering to those whom I most want to serve. It's about being in my element, and comfortable in my own skin. It's about following a passionate-driven purpose. And it’s about embracing all of that and consistently putting yourself out there with that persona.?

Can you relate??

What would you want to do if you didn’t tell yourself you couldn’t do it? Who would you become if you leaned into your passions and purpose? How could you help others if you shared how you can identify with them??

Which leads me to this week’s Top Four:?

Top Four Ways to Defeat Imposter Syndrome:?

• Reframe your thoughts

When your FEAR voice starts to surface, the most important thing to do is become aware and realize that not everything we think is real. Identify some affirmations you can quickly use to silence that voice.?

• Celebrate your successes

Imposter syndrome can cause people to downplay their achievements. It is important to celebrate your successes and acknowledge the hard work that went into them. This can help to build your confidence and counteract feelings of self-doubt.

• Learn from your mistakes

Everyone makes mistakes, and it is important to learn from them. Instead of dwelling on them, use them as an opportunity to learn and grow. There are no losses in life: We either win or we learn.?

• Surround yourself with supportive people

Feeling this way is far more common than you think. Concealing these feelings out of shame only stigmatizes it more. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your abilities, and who will offer encouragement and support when you need it. You also may be surprised how many of them can relate!

Do you need help with your story??

Struggling to get the word out, or the message right? There are three ways we can work together to fix it:

Write Your Story:?Whether it's a business profile, a featured article, or a personal bio, I'll help you create, publish, and showcase a lasting legacy. Book a discovery call here.?

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StoryBrand Coaching: As a Certified StoryBrand Guide, I'll help you change the narrative and apply frameworks to bring clarity to your message and audience. Book a discovery call here.