What would happen if people found out that:
- I didn’t always have all the answers?
- I didn’t always know what to do next?
- I was flying by the seat of my pants, hoping I was making the right decisions?
To cope, I spent so much of my time being busy; juggling all the balls, hoping one wasn’t going to drop. Pretending that I was ten feet tall and bullet proof. Trying to be everything to everybody so that I didn’t let anyone down.
- I was exhausted.
- I was scared.
- I was worried.
- I was fried…
Sound familiar?
I accomplished this juggling act for a great many years until one day I looked in the mirror and I said “you’re a fraud.” I realized at that moment that I was living my life on other people’s terms, working for their desired outcomes, not mine.
On the outside I looked like I had it all together. I had built a wonderful reputation as someone who gets things done. I had built strong teams and developed relationships with peers that are still thriving to this day. I created what I thought was confidence through lofty accomplishments.
What I know now is all of that “stuff” was external to me. I built a life that was external to who I am. Everything my life was built on was based on my ego, my need to prove my worth. Oh, don’t forget the all important people pleasing that I was a champ at.
I was slowly but surely losing myself in the life I was building. Day in and day out I was giving more of myself, emptying the tank. If I hadn’t recognized this fact that lonely day in front of the mirror, I’m not sure where I would be today.
If this resonates with you in any way, then slow down and think...
When was the last time you spent any time in front of the mirror of your life? I’m not talking about brushing your teeth, shaving or putting on your makeup. I’m talking about really taking a look at yourself and the life you have built.
When was the last time you asked yourself:
- Is this my life or is it someone else’s?
- Am I operating from a place of personal integrity?
- Will I look back on my life with pride or regret?
If you are living this life like it’s truly yours, great! Keep building it. If it’s someone else’s, don’t you think it’s about time you gave it back?
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Ever feel like an imposter, a fraud? Please leave your comments below. Let’s get this discussion out in the open!
And...
Did you know that all the way to the end of his illustrious career Jack Welch felt like an imposter? You’re in good company...
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