Believe

Several years back, my confidence at work plummeted.

I let voices convince me that I wasn't good enough.

I let doubts convince me that I wasn't cut out for the work.

I struggled to find my voice.

I struggled to speak up for what I really wanted for my career.

The isolation of the pandemic exacerbated this.

I questioned: Is this what I want for my professional life?

The answer? A resounding no.

So, with the help of my husband and therapist, I started listening to my supporters.

I started relying on what the evidence all around me really said:

I'm good enough at the work.

And: I like the work.

At one point, I came close to leaving the law.

I started picturing what that would look like and what options exist for attorneys who don't want to practice.

But, a funny thing happens when you start listening to the people who believe in you (and start trying to actually believe what they say):

Your confidence rises.

As your confidence rises,

Your work product improves, and

Your relationships with others improve, and

Your joy returns.

It's a momentum-building cycle.

It's also fragile.

Protect it at all costs.

And definitely do not take it for granted.

There are cycles in life--and in the profession.

Cycles of hecticness.

Cycles of slow down.

Cycles of confidence and joy.

Cycles of doubt and worry (or sadness).

The cycles last moments to months to years.

I believe they will always cycle back.

If you're in a low cycle, I've been there.

There is a light at the end of that tunnel.

Focus on it.

Your people are cheering you on.

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