PODCAST EP:7 “Dealing with Imposter Syndrome”

Hey everyone! Today, I want to talk about a topic that has been on my mind a lot lately - imposter syndrome. It's something that I've personally dealt with throughout my journey, and I believe it's important to shed light on it. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let's dive in.

Imposter syndrome is a constant battle that many of us face, regardless of how confident we may appear on the surface. Despite my social media presence and podcast persona, I often find myself grappling with self-doubt and uncertainty. It's a struggle that I'm sure many of you can relate to.

Recently, a listener shared their own experiences with imposter syndrome and how it has held them back from pursuing their dreams. Their message resonated with me deeply because I've been there too. That feeling of not being good enough or feeling like a fraud can be paralyzing. But I want you to know that you're not alone.

Let me take you back to a time when I moved to California at the age of 27. I had just started teaching hair techniques to seasoned artists, and I couldn't help but question myself. I felt like an imposter, wondering if I truly had what it takes to guide and inspire others. To make matters worse, some of the older artists and even a few men initially resisted my presence. It was disheartening, to say the least.

But here's what I learned: It's not about the number of years of experience or the age on your ID. It's about the time, attention, and dedication you've poured into honing your skills. I realized that I had invested countless hours into mastering my craft, and that's what truly mattered.

Imposter syndrome continues to be a recurring challenge for me. I still question my abilities and wonder if I'm good enough to teach or if I truly understand my field. But I've learned to reframe those thoughts. Instead of dwelling on them, I remind myself that to others, I'm just a stranger passing by, just like anyone they encounter on the street or at the gym. If others can achieve success by self-teaching and learning new skills, why can't I?

Of course, there have been tough times too. I've faced setbacks, like when I was unexpectedly fired. But even in those moments, I've managed to maintain a positive outlook. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason, and that belief has carried me through some of the darkest moments. Rather than wallowing in self-pity, I focus on learning, growing, and moving forward

Life's challenges are not obstacles; they are opportunities for personal development. And I approach them with resilience and optimism. It's not always easy, but it's crucial to believe in ourselves, especially when there are no guarantees of success.

So, my friend, if you're struggling with imposter syndrome, know that you're not alone. We all have our doubts and insecurities. But don't let them define you or hold you back from pursuing your passions. Embrace the challenges, learn from them, and keep pushing forward. Believe in yourself, because you are capable of amazing things.

Thank you for joining me on this journey,. stay tuned for the next episode, and remember, you've got this!

xo, Ani