WRITTEN BY: Wendy Cutchins

Do you ever wonder if you are living up to who everyone else thinks you should be? Do you ever wonder if you are living up to who YOU think you should be? You’re not alone! The truth is, everyone battles with self-confidence, but genuine self-confidence is found in who you are in Christ. 

In a recent sermon, I heard this thought. “No one but God can tell you who you should be.” This statement hit home with me. Despite the things God has orchestrated in me, and through me, I often battle with something called imposter syndrome. I’m a fraud…or at least I believe I am. 

Imposter syndrome is a prevalent issue that many of the most successful people deal with. It is the persistent inability to believe that your success is deserved and legitimately achieved as a result of your God-given talents and skills. Common “symptoms” include negative self-thoughts, dwelling on past mistakes, feeling inadequate, or feelings of not being good enough. Research shows that as much as 70% of people experience it at some point in their lives.

Let me give you an example of how this normally plays out for me. I have twenty years of teaching experience. I am certified in multiple areas and have earned national board certification. My peers have named me Teacher of the Year twice in my career, and I have held several leadership positions that involve mentoring others. You would think that I walk into work every day feeling like an expert. That couldn’t be further from the truth! I question every aspect of my success and whether it is legitimate.Whether it’s imposter syndrome or some other wall that Satan has built to keep you from achieving what God has planned for you, God is greater! Trust that what you have accomplished using the gifts and talents that God has given are legitimate and should be celebrated. Here are a few things to remember…

1. Learn to see yourself as God sees you.

In Psalm 139:13-14, it states that God “knit you together in your mother’s womb” and that you are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” God does not make mistakes. He has made you exactly as you should be to accomplish his purpose for you. 

2. Genuine self-confidence is found in who we are in Christ.

Because you were created with a purpose, God began a good work in you from the beginning that he will finish in His timing. Paul told the Philippians in Philippians 1:6 that, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Paul had no doubt that God would continue the work he started in them. God has the same plan for you.

3. Do your best and trust that the Lord will use it.

You do not have to be the smartest, strongest, most productive, or most efficient person. You don’t have to stress about your weaknesses or compare yourself to others. You just have to trust that God is in control and has a plan for your life. Jeremiah 17:7 says, “blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” You can have confidence knowing He is there with you, walking with you step by step through it all. Don’t worry about being who you or others think you should be. Be who God wants you to be.

Be the best YOU!