I was approached by Psychologies Magazine to be the featured “Ask the expert” in the March 2020 edition. This marks a professional milestones for me. I did not think I would ever feature in a publication. Writing is not something I thought I was good at. Yes, imposter syndrome is alive and well in a successful coach! In response to the invitation I think I replied “yes, of course, but surely you have asked lots of other people too?” It is a genuine thrill to see it in shops and know I am featured in it!
I put off writing the article. Why put myself through the pain of doing something you believe you can’t do? But, I am learning to recognise the voice of my inner critic. When I hear it I chose not to hear “I am not good enough” or “thanks but no thanks” and “everyone will think it is terrible”. If I let my inner critic win I wouldn’t be helping someone in need. I wouldn’t feel the joy and pride it gives me to face my fears.
In reality, my writing is good enough and, if it isn’t, the great team at Psychologies are on hand to help. I wouldn’t be failing if it is not published. Instead it would be a fantastic learning opportunity. And, as for validation and approval, there is only one person that can do that and that is me.
The response to my feature has been fantastic. It has spurred me on to write more on a number of different issues. It may not come “naturally” to me but I am happy to practice the art, to share my expertise and help others.
I was approached by Psychologies Magazine to be the featured “Ask the expert” in the March 2020 edition. This marks a professional milestones for me. I did not think I would ever feature in a publication. Writing is not something I thought I was good at. Yes, imposter syndrome is alive and well in a successful coach! In response to the invitation I think I replied “yes, of course, but surely you have asked lots of other people too?” It is a genuine thrill to see it in shops and know I am featured in it!
I put off writing the article. Why put myself through the pain of doing something you believe you can’t do? But, I am learning to recognise the voice of my inner critic. When I hear it I chose not to hear “I am not good enough” or “thanks but no thanks” and “everyone will think it is terrible”. If I let my inner critic win I wouldn’t be helping someone in need. I wouldn’t feel the joy and pride it gives me to face my fears.
In reality, my writing is good enough and, if it isn’t, the great team at Psychologies are on hand to help. I wouldn’t be failing if it is not published. Instead it would be a fantastic learning opportunity. And, as for validation and approval, there is only one person that can do that and that is me.
The response to my feature has been fantastic. It has spurred me on to write more on a number of different issues. It may not come “naturally” to me but I am happy to practice the art, to share my expertise and help others.