Imagine you lived 2000 years ago, born a slave of the Roman Empire. You had no autonomy over your life or body. No rights. No recognition of personhood or humanity. Epictetus was a Greek slave born in 50 AD. Even his name conveyed his diminished status: the word epíktētos (ἐπίκτητος) in Greek means “gained” or “acquired”. But despite his lowly beginnings, he went on to become a renowned Stoic author and philosopher – inspiring theologians like St. Augustine, St. Clement of Alexandria, St. Ambrose of Milan, and Byzantine monastic writers.
Why am I telling you a story about an ancient slave cum philosopher? What does this have to do with imposter syndrome?
The ancient stoics understood something we have forgotten in a modern world focused on instant gratification and results- life isn’t about what happens to you, it’s about how you respond. And how you respond, is the absolute ONLY thing we have control over in a rapidly changing, complex world.
Epictetus reminds us that no one can enslave your mind without your consent. And this is where Imposter Syndrome comes in: YOUR LIMITATIONS ARE NOT IMPOSED, THEY ARE CHOSEN. They live, as long as your fear, limiting beliefs, and excuses live.
Let me say that again – your limitations are not imposed, they are chosen.
Those stories in your head about how no one will read your work, so why bother? The ruminations focused on failure and the associated dire outcomes. That all-or-nothing thinking along with other cognitive distortions like ‘should’, ‘would’ and ‘what ifs’ that leave you paralyzed….
Congratulations, you have just created an alternate timeline with a horrific reality to dwell in, that robs you of your ability to move forward and isn’t even true.
On 5th November, I will be speaking at the Empowered Auther’s Summit hosted by Tellwell Publishing on overcoming Imposter Syndrome. Whether you are looking to write your first book, apply for that stretch role, or turn an unrealized dream into reality, sign up to attend my free presentation here: https://empoweredauthorsummit.heysummit.com/?ac=dllzFkXw
I will be providing personal and practical insights into how to push through imposter syndrome and make one shift everyday to move you towards your goals.
Any proceeds generated from book sales at this event will be donated to the Pediatric OCD research Team at BC Children’s Hospital. Thank you for your support!
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Wold you advise starting with a free platform luke
Wordpress or go for a paqid option? Theree are
so many choices out there that I’m totally overwhelmed ..
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