This morning I finished editing my notes from The She League Conference while drinking a cup of coffee and sitting in front of the fireplace. Well, a video on YouTube of a fireplace 😉 The sound of the wood burning relaxes and energizes me. I had groceries delivered from Amazon Fresh, texted my grandmother, and will begin preparing breakfast in a little while. [Sugar does not go in grits in this household! 🤣]
This year's She League Conference was transformational. One of the key takeaways for me was “Why not you?” So often when I'm in a room I start doubting myself as if I don't deserve that opportunity. Imposter syndrome is a mother-shut-your mouth! Monica Guzman, a business coach, gave a powerful speech on imposter syndrome and how it develops, especially as a woman of color. What is imposter syndrome? Convincing yourself that you are unqualified or incompetent, despite a lack of evidence. Who told me that I didn't deserve to be at that gala, sitting next to the CEO? Nobody told me that, but after being in a toxic work environment many years ago I began doubting myself and being extremely too hard on myself. A toxic workplace will change you before you can change it. I learned my lesson and got up outta there but sometimes I could still hear that voice telling me I wasn't worthy of certain opportunities and that I should have been grateful for scraps.
I know that Talkspace campaign was technically a paid campaign but I utilized those therapy sessions to talk about some real -ish. And I really wrote that toxic manager a letter to let her know how she made me feel and how it was affecting me years later. Now, will I ever mail it? Heck no! But it sure felt good to get that off my mind.
Now I'm able to move more confidently in the workplace, because I belong wherever God puts me. The cubicle, the gala, the boardroom, and in the future, the corner office too. Why not me?
It's okay to slow down and take up space First name / girlfriend.
