You know that feeling of inadequacy?
It’s the feeling that you don't really know this thing? Or you are not so good at that thing?
No, it is not you being realistic. There's a thin line between being realistic and feeling like an impostor.
I used to be like that… in fact, I still feel like that atimes.
For example, when I compiled my book and gave it out for free a few days back…
A few friends (and people who had interacted with my content) were sharing it and talking about how awesome (they think) I am…
But somehow I felt like I didn't deserve it. I kept wondering, "Isn't it all hype?" But days after, I'm still receiving messages inbox from people I have never met, and what are they telling me?
Ade Copy: Hello Kendra. Good afternoon. I downloaded 100 Days of Copywriting this morning. Wow! "Amazing" would be understating how great it is!
It is incredible…
Yet!
There's a teeny weeny voice in my head saying, "Is it not hype?"
This looks so innocent, and even appears like humility… but it is not. That is what people call The Impostor Syndrome.
I read somewhere that every creative meets with this problem sometimes.
A typical situation is, you're about to take on a project or teach some folks, but you just feel there is still much to know and learn, and so you don't have all it takes to take it up.
But Guess what? You'd be amazed at how much you can actually do when you do it. There's no other way to prove yourself than to do it. I'm not even going to disregard the reality.
The Truth
You are always going to need improvement; you will never be the same six months from now. The best in your field won't be the same six months from now.
Preparation is what you need. It's not learning new concepts or perspectives. It is simply preparing for what is at hand.
Here are five things you can do:
Learn about everything that surrounds the project: If it is a presentation, how do people who make presentations start?
If it is a business, what are the components of a successful business? If it is a book, what does it take to write an interesting book?
It's easy to learn today. You can search for anything on the internet.
Listen to what people have to say about what you do: It's amazing how we understand and know people so well, but do not know ourselves.
So, let people tell you what they think, especially, people who you trust. Constructive criticism is what you need, (even though I believe that you are not seeing yourself as amazing as others see you).
Also, you can ask for help where need be. If you encounter something you need help with, ask for it. If it requires that you pay, do.
Rehearse if need be: Your fear is probably because you are dealing with something you are totally new to.
Talk about what you are going to do. Don't wait for the D-Day.
As You rehearse, you will find loopholes; things you probably don't really understand, and you will find ways to deal with them.
You will also learn so much along the way.
Join groups: There's strength in unity. Join a group, team, club, or hub where people like you come together. Share your ideas and be open to learn.
On different social platforms, there are groups where people like you meet. For example, as a copywriter, I belong to Facebook groups and LinkedIn groups for copywriters, and there, people share their challenges, victories, and projects. Such will help you.
Act: After all is said and done, you have to act. You have to do it amidst the nagging fear. I do not regret that I set out to write copy tips for 100 days across my social accounts. Neither do I regret that I compiled the book.
I did it and put it out amidst the fear. I talk about how helpful it is amidst the fear, and my testimonials cannot be bought; they are INCREDIBLE!
The point is, you have to act. Grant Cardone says, "No one will come to your house and make your dreams come true."
Every expert was once a novice. Whatever stage you are in requires continuity to get to expertise. Keep going!
P.S.: If you're looking to improve your persuasion skills; to get more people to buy your products, or subscribe to your services, then you should get my book.
Download is FREE. Get it while you can at: 100 Days Of Copywriting
P.S.S.: You can find me as kendrakopy across all social platforms. Let's connect.
Thanks for this. I needed it. ❤
I swear this is awesome. I'm going to improve on myself