She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Self-Doubt: Embracing Adulthood

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that I’ve never had a traditional path to adulthood. Without a degree, I’ve had to navigate the world of entrepreneurship and personal finance on my own terms. This unconventional route has led to moments of uncertainty and self-doubt, but it’s also taught me valuable lessons about trusting myself and taking control of my life.

The Illusion of Adulthood

Receiving a diploma or landing a prestigious job title doesn’t automatically grant us adulthood. It’s a mindset shift that requires us to take responsibility for our decisions and actions. I’ve learned that titles, no matter how impressive, don’t magically instill confidence or decision-making abilities. It’s up to us to develop those skills and trust ourselves in the process.

Financial Fears and Self-Doubt

My struggles with personal finance are well-documented, but it’s not just about managing money. It’s about having the confidence to make informed decisions and advocate for ourselves. I’ve often turned to others for guidance, but ultimately, it’s essential to develop our own financial literacy and trust our instincts.

The Consequences of Self-Doubt

Not trusting ourselves can have severe consequences, from accepting low pay to agreeing to unfavorable contracts. We must learn to trust our instincts and speak up when necessary. I’ve lost out on opportunities and earnings by not advocating for myself, but I’ve also learned from those experiences.

Forced into Adulthood

Running my own businesses has thrust me into situations where I must act with confidence and certainty. I’ve had to negotiate contracts, allocate funds, and make tough decisions. While it’s uncomfortable, it’s forced me to develop the skills and mindset of an adult.

Faking It Until You Make It

The truth is, no one truly feels like an adult all the time. But we must project confidence and self-assurance to succeed. This means speaking clearly, asking questions, and advocating for ourselves. We must be willing to take risks and make decisions, even when it feels daunting.

The Power of Self-Advocacy

In the end, it’s up to us to speak up and demand respect. We must be prepared to negotiate, advocate for ourselves, and make tough decisions. By doing so, we’ll reap the rewards of taking control of our lives and our finances. Remember, if we don’t know our worth, no one will give it to us.