Have you ever worked really hard on a goal and you actually achieved it? Maybe you got lucky this time and things worked out – or, maybe it’s not really for you, it was a mistake – or, maybe you consistently put in the time and effort and you’re FINALLY reaping the benefits.
You’re so used to seeing other people achieve success, you begin to think that it can’t happen to you. Like a hamster on the ever-spinning wheel, you do the work, but it feels like you’re going nowhere.
“Why me?” you think. Why not you? There may be some successful people who had an advantage when they started, but it doesn’t mean that you aren’t able to see your success.
When you do become successful, you may be hesitant and think that it was a mistake. Imposter syndrome kicks in and you don’t feel like it’s really yours to hold.
You’re proud of other people and you cheer them on. What about you? You can be a fan of yourself, just as much as you are a fan for others. It doesn’t make you selfish or arrogant. We are all here on this planet to help each other, but in the process, don’t forget to help yourself, too.
It’s OK to put yourself first.
Give yourself credit for what you accomplish – don’t wait for permission to be proud. IT IS YOURS! You did it, you overcame those obstacles that tried to stop you, you fell down, but got back up, it was you that kept your faith and your focus!
Don’t minimize your success. It is not a mistake. Smile, be happy for what you did. You’re quick to be happy for others when they succeed – you need to be even happier when you succeed. Don’t downplay it. You deserve it.
At the same time, comparing your journey to someone else’s doesn’t work. Everyone is on a different path and they have different ways of getting to their destination. You don’t know what they’ve been through and they don’t know what you’ve been through. Everyone’s battle is their own.
Keep your eyes on your prize. When you reach your goal, go ahead and celebrate it! This is what you’ve worked for. The sacrifices you’ve made were worth it. The vision you’ve been imagining for so long is becoming clear, right before your eyes. This is what you committed to – this is what you wanted.
Don’t devalue yourself. It’s not a mistake. Your future is what you make it, day in and day out. Claim it and prepare for your next upcoming success.