It’s been one of those days… I’m actually doing fine. Business is running smoothly, I’ve been successful with several endeavours, and I’ve been asked to talk at an event.
And then it’s back again, this old feeling of not really knowing what I’m talking about, of not being good enough, of being a fraud, and the fear that others will find out.
When I was a kid, I was sometimes told not to boast, not to be arrogant. In my mid-40s, I still find it hard from time to time to allow myself to say: yes, I am doing fine. I know what I can do, and I do it. And I will talk about what I can do and not hide behind closed doors.
Still, this is sometimes easier said than done and I’m very grateful to both my online and offline friends who support me and if I can’t find words of encouragement for myself, they will find those words for me.
I think most of us can relate to those feelings, but the trick is not to give in to them, and as you have, to focus on the facts (knowledge, past achievements, positive feedback) and the people who will support you. I hope your speaking engagement goes well.