You Are Enough

In a world that constantly tells us we need to be more - more successful, more productive, more accomplished - it can be easy to fall into the trap of feeling like we're never quite enough.

You don't need to strive for some elusive state of perfection or far-off goal to be worthy of respect, love, belonging, opportunities, or anything you want to pursue.

Your inherent value as a human being has nothing to do with your resume, bank account, or societal status.

The process of letting go of imposter syndrome and truly internalizing this radical notion of self-acceptance can be a challenging journey, but it's worth every step.

When you understand the root of where unworthy thoughts and feelings may have started, it can be incredibly helpful.

Reflect on your childhood, teenage years, or any experience that left you feeling undeserving or unworthy in any way.

Whatever the situation, experiences, or words that may have been said - they had more to do with the person or people saying them, than they had to do with you.

Unfortunately, words and actions once said or done can never be retracted. They can be acknowledged as hurtful, inappropriate, or wrong - but they can never be unsaid or rewound.

As long as you can put them in perspective - and fully embrace that you are perfect, complete and whole - just the way you are; you can overcome any false beliefs.

Here are some steps to help you along the way:

1. Challenge perfectionistic thinking.

Imposter syndrome is often fueled by the belief that we need to be perfect to be fully accepted or successful. The reality is no one is perfect.

We all make mistakes (learn lessons), set and re-set of our goals, and have things we are working on. Accepting our imperfections as a natural part of being human can go a long way in dismantling imposter feelings.

2. Reframe your inner critic.

That little voice in your head that's constantly pointing out what you believe to be shortcomings and doubting your abilities? That's your inner critic, and it's likely a key driver of your imposter syndrome.

When you catch that critic rearing its head, reframe its messages with more compassionate and accepting words. What would you say to a friend in a similar situation? Offer yourself that same kindness and understanding.

3. Stop judging yourself.

You are exactly where you are meant to be. Accepting all parts of yourself - exactly as you are, where you are, is liberating.

4. Don’t compare yourself with others.

As the saying goes, comparison is the death of joy.

5. Celebrate your successes, big and small.

It's easy to downplay or discount our accomplishments, even major achievements, when we're battling imposter syndrome.

To truly acknowledge and appreciate your achievements, no matter how "small" they may seem, can be a powerful solution. Keep a running list of things you've done well, or that you’ve achieved, and refer to it when you're feeling self-doubt in any way.

6. Surround yourself with supportive people.

The toxic messages of imposter syndrome can be amplified by an environment that doesn't validate our worth.

Seek out friends, family members, or colleagues who can provide genuine encouragement and remind you of your strengths. Limit time with or eliminate from your circle, those who make you feel inferior or undermine your confidence.

7. Practice self-compassion.

When imposter feelings arise, look at what triggered those emotions. Extend the same kindness and understanding to yourself, that you would to a loved one in a similar situation.

Talk to yourself with gentleness, empathy, and care. Remind yourself that you are human, and that your worth is not defined by your ‘performance,’ achievements, or any external factors.

8. Seek out positive role models and supportive mentors.

Seeing others who have overcome self-doubt or unbelievable odds, can be a powerful reminder that you're not alone in your struggles.

Seek out people who have "made it" in your areas of interest and observe how they carry themselves with confidence and self-assuredness. Their stories can provide inspiration and tangible strategies for quieting your own inner critic.

9. Redefine success on your own terms.

Often, imposter syndrome is fueled by external definitions of success that don't align with our own values and priorities.

10. We're not here to impress anyone.

Being a good human being, doing what we can to contribute good to the world, and showing up as the best version of ourselves as often as possible, is enough.

Take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you.

Proactively work to align your goals and measures of achievement with that personal vision. This can help you break free from the constant striving and comparison that feeds feelings of unworthiness or imposter feelings.

Ultimately, overcoming imposter syndrome is about reconnecting with the inherent worth and capability you've had all along.

It's about learning to see yourself through the lens of self-acceptance, rather than the distorted mirror of self-doubt. It's about understanding that you are enough, exactly as you are - no more, no less.

This journey isn't always easy, and there will be setbacks along the way.

But with self-compassion, courage, and a willingness to challenge the limiting beliefs that hold you back, you can overcome imposter syndrome. Replace any self-limiting beliefs with a healthy appreciation for how far you’ve come.

Step into the fullness of your personal power.

You are worthy. You are capable. And you are enough.

For more inspiration to live your best and most authentic life, visit You Can Be Free Now on YouTube.

Much abundance and happiness,

LuRae