Reset my default to high self worth.

This morning I was writing in my journal and reflecting on some experiences from the past week where I was in a virtual group conversation and I felt good about how it went. I presented myself well, made some connections, advanced my cause. Good work.

But it occurred to me that I had entered each group with an automatic and not even conscious feeling of inferiority. I was patting myself on the back for not blowing it. It wasn’t exactly a feeling of imposter syndrome. It was more that I came in thinking that I was less than and needed time before I realized that wasn’t the case.

I give myself credit for venturing into networking opportunities that are somewhat out of my comfort zone. But just because I’m a little out of my element doesn’t mean I need to assume I lack value until such time as I realize that isn’t so.

I want my default to be I belong here. I have plenty to contribute. Realizing it is a step in the right direction. There was a time when it took longer than 45 minutes to remember my inherent value. But from now on I want to go into those conversations feeling my full worth. Let’s have that be a given and not a pleasant surprise.

Originally published at https://lizsumner.com on February 21, 2021.