From Imposter to Empowered: Building a Strong Self-Image

Yesterday we had an insightful panel discussion on 'From Imposter to Empowered: Building a Strong Self-Image' with GDG Addis and Gigzhub, and our amazing panelists Kalkidan Tesfaye, Rehana Abdulber, and Efri Dereje.

The discussion started with the panelists sharing their personal experiences of feeling like an imposter and how they overcame it to build a strong self-image. They emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating achievements, practicing positive self-talk, and seeking support from peers and mentors.

The panelists also defined a strong self-image and discussed why it's essential for personal and professional growth. A strong self-image involves having confidence in oneself, believing in one's abilities, and having a positive outlook on life. It's crucial to have a strong self-image to overcome imposter syndrome, make progress in life, and achieve success.

The discussion then shifted to the role of self-talk in building a strong self-image and how to use it to empower ourselves. The panelists emphasized the importance of being kind and compassionate to ourselves, using affirmations to boost confidence, and reframing negative thoughts into positive ones.

Imposter syndrome can often be tied to feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. The panelists shared their strategies for managing these emotions and building confidence, such as practicing self-care, mindfulness, and setting achievable goals.

The panelists also discussed how societal expectations and cultural norms affect our self-image and how to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace our authentic selves. They emphasized the importance of self-awareness, learning to challenge societal norms and expectations, and finding role models who inspire and empower us.

As part of the discussion, the panelists also shared some valuable resources that they found helpful in their personal journeys of building a strong self-image. These include:

Tools:

Reflection / journaling

The 5 whys technique

Alone time

Books:

Atomic Habits by James Clear

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k by Mark Manson

101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

Whole Again: Healing Your Heart and Rediscovering Your True Self After Toxic Relationships and Emotional Abuse by Jackson Mackenzie

Find Your Why by Simon Sinek

Podcasts:

Diary of a CEO by Steven Barlett

The Game by Alex Hormozi

YouTube Channel:

Escaping Ordinary by B.C. Marx

The panelists recommended these resources as great tools for anyone looking to build a strong self-image.

In conclusion, we learned that building a strong self-image is essential to overcome imposter syndrome and achieve success in life. It involves recognizing and celebrating achievements, practicing positive self-talk, seeking support from peers and mentors, managing emotions and anxiety, and breaking free from limiting beliefs. Thank you to Kalkidan, Rehana, and Efri for sharing their insights and personal experiences with us.

"Believe in yourself and the world will believe in you. From feeling like an imposter to becoming empowered, the journey begins with building a strong self-image. Embrace your uniqueness, trust your abilities, and let your light shine. You are not an imposter, you are a force to be reckoned with."

#selfimage #empowerment #impostersyndrome #wtm_addis #gdg_addis #gigzhub