Today, I wanted to share how I struggled with imposter syndrome and other limiting beliefs pursuing the dream of opening my hair salon. I believe you’ll find that story motivational.
Opening the salon was a leap of faith that I never imagined taking.
I got a text message that the space was gonna be available. And I don't really know why exactly, but for the first time in my career, I was like: ”You know what? Why can't I be a salon owner?”
I've always said for years, though it was too much responsibility and I didn't want it. I didn't want to do all of that. I wasn't interested in it, it just felt too overwhelming.
As we worked tirelessly to prepare the salon, doubts and fears crept in. "I don't know what I'm doing," became my negative mantra as I grappled with imposter syndrome
I really, I didn't know how to manage a team.
I didn't know how to open a salon.
I didn't know how to have a business license or what all the laws were.
Before I had figured it all out, I didn't have everything ironed out, I was winging it literally every day.
“The doors closing and us not making it" - was one of my BIGGEST FEARS.
“So what, I'll go be a hair stylist somewhere else. And at least I will have tried and known that it wasn't for me,” I told myself trying to fight that fear.
I really learned to just trust myself that being genuine and, asking for help, and having good intentions is enough to get you to the next step.
In the early days of opening, challenges arose, and I felt the weight of responsibility pressing down on me. The washing machine broke, electrical issues cropped up, and plumbing problems threatened to derail our progress. In those moments of uncertainty, I had to lean into my belief that I could figure it out, no matter how daunting the task seemed.
Hiring new team members brought about a fresh wave of imposter syndrome.
Who was I to tell someone if they should work here or not?
I didn't deserve to be here or that I didn't know what I was doing. I just kept saying, "I don't know what I'm doing, but I care a lot, and we're gonna figure it out.
But through trial and error, I realized that I deserved to be in this position. I wanted to empower young women to live better lives, and I knew that I could make a positive impact, despite my doubts.
After a lot of trial and error, a lot of mistakes, I learned that I am worthy of being here.
“I wouldn't be here if I shouldn't be.” And just trusting that I can make a positive impact on someone's life.
Over time, I learned to embrace the mistakes as opportunities for growth. The imposter syndrome that once plagued me began to fade, replaced by a sense purpose.
Today, as I look back on the early days of opening the salon, I am filled with gratitude for the obstacles that pushed me to confront my limiting beliefs. I now know that I am capable of achieving my dreams.
And you are too! You are worthy of your dreams. You are capable of achieving greatness. Trust in yourself, trust in the process, and trust that every challenge you face is just a stepping stone towards your ultimate success.
So, take that leap of faith, confront your fears, and embrace the journey ahead with courage and determination. Remember, you deserve to be where you are, and you have the power to make a positive impact on the world. Keep going, keep believing, and watch as your dreams become your reality. You've got this!
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