As I prepare to embark upon a new adventure as a vendor at a women’s conference, it has become evident how imposter syndrome creeps up behind you.

The perfectionist type has definitely been my shadow for the last few weeks since I signed up to be a vendor. To be candid, I really just thought about attending the event, The Healing Seat, in July. Never did I imagine being a vendor.

I searched Pinterest and YouTube for suggestions for vendors at fairs and trade shows. I even asked ChatGPT to do a mockup image for my table setup. Many trips back and forth to stores and playing with designs on Canva have become a habit for me as I prepare.

I had to stop myself after setting up my table at home, rearranging items on the table, packing everything up, only to bring it back out again to make sure I had the best setup. Not to mention, I broke a glass item that I got from an antique shop in East Texas that is not readily available.

What this experience has taught me is that I, too, suffer with imposter syndrome. The second-guessing and overpreparing were the symptoms that became prevalent while getting ready. I had to take a step back—literally—after stepping on glass that would not have broken if I hadn’t been ruminating over a polished and perfect table that would invite and attract women to my corner.

I had to speak to myself the same way I speak to my clients:

You’ve got this.

You deserve to be in the room.

You were built for this.

This is your calling.

You are talented.

If you have discovered that nasty monster of imposter syndrome lurking in the background, don’t fight it alone. Reach out to Meraki Counseling today for assistance in building your confidence.