I started to question my abilities, my worth, my entire career path.

From Confidence to Crisis: The Unraveling

I was unexpectedly fired from a job I loved in the first years of my career and that was a brutal experience for me. At another job, a colleague who couldn't bear the little attention I was giving him, verbally attacked me. At a later point of my career, I was laid off from two consecutive jobs where I had little support and guidance or because I wasn’t the manager’s preference…

Each blow landed harder than the last. My confidence plummeted. I started to question my abilities, my worth, my entire career path. The final straw came after my maternity leave. Returning to work, I felt the sting of the "maternity penalty" – overlooked for promotions, passed over for challenging projects or dismissed because I had a young child to cater to… Imposter syndrome crept in, whispering doubts and fueling my insecurities.

One day, after yet another demoralizing interview and a failed attempt to launch a side hustle, I broke down. I called my mom, then my dad. Through tears, I poured out my frustrations and fears. And as always, they were my rock. "We know you've got this," they reassured me. "Focus on showing up, showing what you've got, and all the big things you've done so far."

Why not me? I thought.

Rising from the Ashes: Finding My Voice

Their words sparked something within me. Why not me? I thought. I have the education, the experience, the drive and I surely worked harder enough to earn the spot I was aiming for. Why am I letting self-doubt hold me back?

That was my turning point. I revamped my CV, practiced mock interviews with friends, and sought feedback from colleagues and mentors. I reached out to my network, and the support I received was overwhelming. Women I barely knew offered advice, encouragement, and a listening ear.

I particularly remember this lady from a company I had applied to. She was eager to meet me and hire me on the spot after reading my CV; the only setback was my total lack of German knowledge at the time; albeit that, she stayed on the call for the entire hour, listening to my story and praising my grit and my impressive career. She went as far as to offer me to hold the position open for me until I passed my B2 German exam!

My worth is not defined by one bad experience, one missed opportunity.

Owning Your Worth: A Journey of Self-Belief

Through these conversations, I realized something crucial: my worth is not defined by one bad experience, one missed opportunity, or one person's opinion. My value comes from within, from the skills I've honed, the challenges I've overcome, and the unique perspective I bring to the table.

And you know what? Impostor syndrome didn't magically disappear. It still rears its ugly head from time to time. But now, I have the tools to fight back. I remember my parents' unwavering belief in me, the support of my incredible network, and most importantly, I remind myself of all I have accomplished and what I want to accomplish in this life (hello, self-awareness 🤗)

So, how do we break free from these self-imposed limitations? Here's what's helped me:

➥ Build your own hall of fame. Keep a journal of your accomplishments, big and small. Celebrate your wins!

➥ Speak up! Don't be afraid to share your achievements and highlight your skills. Blow that trumpet of yours, no one else will!

➥ Align your work with your values. Find a role, a company, or a project that resonates with you.

➥ Cultivate a supportive network. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and champion your success.

And remember, dear sister, you are not alone. We all have moments of self-doubt. But by recognizing impostor syndrome for what it is – a liar and a thief – we can reclaim our narratives and step into our power.

Now go out there and get that job, that promotion, that dream you've been putting off. Because, why not YOU?

"Rise together, shine brighter!"

Aïcha Dandjouma

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