Why haven't I posted on Substack in 2 months?
I made my initial post about joining Substack and then disappeared.
Why haven’t I posted on Substack since I made my account? Well, for one, I am pretty easily distracted, so I’m sure some part of me made the account and then forgot it existed! But the other, much louder, part of me has been ruminating on a comment someone left on my first post.
(i deleted the original comment before posting. thx!)
I was trying to be vulnerable and honest about the imposter syndrome I feel when writing or creating content. I’ve always felt this way, even when discussing things I am experienced in. But this person wrote a comment that said, “You're right to feel out of place here. What do you bring to the table that isn't already being offered by someone with more credibility and real life experiences?”
Oof.
I would have loved to come back on here with a well-written clap-back, that details all the reasons why I am qualified and deserves this space. But in truth, this comment spoke to my deepest insecurities. I’ve always felt elevated beyond my ability to function, like a turtle on a fence post. My Evil Brain tells me I don’t deserve to have such an incredible, passionate, and kind audience. So, to have someone ask me something that was so clearly written to hurt… it really stunted me for a while!
So, what do I bring to the table?
Well, I’m actually the only person qualified to write about this subject matter. Why? Because I talk about my personal experiences— my feelings, struggles, and triumphs. I don’t like giving people advice or telling them what to do. I’ve never claimed to be an expert. But I know myself better than anyone, and if sharing my own experiences can help others, then I am going to keep on sharing :)
Xo.
while i want to hate that someone would say something like that, i like to think that is an opportunity for those of use who also suffer from IS to do exactly what you did: to prove why we DO belong in a space. it is so easy to run from a comment like that when what we should be doing (IMO) is standing our ground and answering that question. you DO deserve to be here and i, for one, really appreciate what you bring to the table. i started following you via IG when you posted leaving the competitive world to take care of yourself and it was something i really needed to hear from someone who "seemed" like me. keep showing up as your authentic self because it means so much to some of us!