What happens when youstop fighting yourself

One of the hardest things about imposter syndrome is that it convinces you to treat yourself  like the enemy. Every mistake feels like a verdict. Every success feels like luck. Every room you walk into feels like borrowed space.

But here’s the thing most people don’t say out loud: your inner critic doesn’t get the final word.

This weekend, instead of trying to outperform your doubts, I want you to try something simpler: sit with them without obeying them.

• When the thought comes—“I don’t belong here”—try answering back: “That’s just a story. I’m allowed to stay anyway.”

• When you hear—“Someone else could do this better”—counter with: “Maybe. But no one else can do it as me.”

• When the fear is—“If I fail, it proves I’m a fraud”—remind yourself: “If I fail, it proves I’m human.”

Facing the thought is the first step. Not because it erases the doubt, but because it breaks the spell.

A Gentle Practice

Take 60 seconds today. Write down the loudest critical thought in your head. Then write one line back to it that starts with “Even so…”

Example: “I’m not qualified. Even so, I’m showing up and learning.”

That “even so” is where freedom sneaks in.

With you,
Cody

“You are not required to set yourself on fire to keep other people warm.” — Unknown