When was the last time you honestly celebrated you? We often have no problem celebrating other’s wins but find it difficult to celebrate our own accomplishments. I have also been guilty of this. There have been times when people try to acknowledge me, and it made me feel uncomfortable. I didn’t feel I was deserving of praise, and I didn’t understand why until I heard about the imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is defined by stressandanxiety.com as a pattern of thinking that makes us doubt our accomplishments and makes us fear being exposed as a “fraud”. It does not matter the level of expertise or educational background; many women suffer from imposter syndrome. The famous poet, Maya Angelou even stated, “I have written 11 books, but each time I think ‘uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody and they’re going to find me out.’ Who would have imagined that someone as talented and gifted as Maya Angelou, suffered from imposter syndrome from time to time? Michelle Obama has been quoted as saying, “I still have a little imposter syndrome…It doesn’t go away, that feeling that you shouldn’t take me that seriously. What do I know? I share that with you because we all have doubts in our own abilities, about our power and what power is.”
As mothers, wives, employees, and even employers, we constantly question whether we deserve what we have rightfully earned. It doesn’t matter how hard we work; we still find it difficult to take credit and celebrate ourselves.
So, what is the fix? Believe it or not, the answer is obvious, but not easy to incorporate. The fix is to simply do it anyhow. That’s right. Stare self-doubt in the face and call it a liar. Walk in everything you have worked hard to accomplish and then force yourself to celebrate. Receive every compliment that is given with poise and grace. Exhibit confidence with your head held high because you deserve it.
It is past time to celebrate yourself. Go ahead and buy the streamers, balloons, and noise makers. You have lived your life, accomplished goals, overcome hurdles, and proven to yourself that you deserve to be right here, right now.
Celebrate!
