As I’m writing this, I’m fighting this sinking feeling that creeps up every once in a while. We’ve all come to know it as imposter syndrome. For me it’s the fear that the voice telling me, “You can’t,” was right all along. In the past I’ve met that fear with extreme arrogance, shouting to myself and all the world, “YES I CAN,” while barely believing it myself. Whether it was as a student, a missionary on a church staff, or now as a graphic designer, somehow that little voice has always wedged it’s way into my thoughts. And I know I’m not alone in this.
I think it’s about time we all decide to show that voice the door.
The trap with imposter syndrome is that, in a way, it’s true. We can’t… not on our own. If we do everything out of our own strength and based on our own abilities, we WILL fail sooner or later. Every person will face rejection and criticism at some point. The question is whether or not your identity hangs on the acceptance and approval of others.
We MUST root our identity in Christ, because without him, we are lost; floating through space grasping for purpose and significance. With him, we have hope, joy, peace and a reason to show up everyday. No matter what anyone else thinks of us, we know someone who’s seen the good, bad and ugly and still loves us passionately.
Maybe instead of being afraid of failure and weakness, we should embrace it; accept that we are fragile and in desperate need of saving. Instead of spending our days consumed by the need to impress, we can spend them filled with wonder that we get to wake up and experience life with Christ every day. Each moment shifts from an opportunity to prove ourselves into a chance to learn, grow and experience something new.
I don’t have a solution to imposter syndrome. In fact, I’m sure I will continue my battle with these intrusive thoughts and lies from the enemy. But there is a sigh of relief that comes when we bring these thoughts to God; when we surrender our pride and say, “I really need you to help me get through today.” Then God will put a hand on our shoulder and loving say, “Of course!” We’re not alone in this. We don’t have to fake it until we make it. Admitting we need help doesn’t make us imposters. It simply makes us human.
I’d love for you to share your story of rooting your identity in Christ below!
