How to put yourself out there!!

Are you someone who thinks they don’t fit in? Do you suffer with a case of Imposter Syndrome? Well, you’re not alone! For example, me. I used to have HORRIBLE Imposter Syndrome. Like, it wasn’t funny. I’d be lying if I said I don’t have it anymore. It’s not gonna be something you’ll immediately get over. Sometimes, it can get worse. And for some people, they don’t get over it ever. But something some of these people have in common is that they find a way to get used to it. It took a while for me to get used to it, that’s for sure, but it’s still possible! I want to teach you how I became accustomed to this silly, self-diagnosed problem of mine.

When I got into high school, I was rather closed off. I mean, it was such a huge change. From middle school, spending most of it online because of covid, to high school, where I was slowly (not really) building my adulthood. It was just so terrifying to think of. Not to mention, there were so many people. What if they bullied me because I was “Freshmeat”? What if they shunned me from everything cause I was different from everyone else in this school? I was so scared of how my high school experience would be. 

My mindset slowly began to change when I started to get myself involved in clubs and extracurricular activities, such as choir and GSRA. I met so many people in the choir. Sure, I may not still talk to all of them, but they helped me become more social. And with GSRA, I was able to join a welcoming community and a safe space for my identity. I was still struggling with who I was and how I wanted to perceive myself towards the school and towards the people I keep around me. And to be honest, if it wasn’t for GSRA, I wouldn’t be writing this blog post for the Learning Center website. Why, the president of GSRA himself recommended me to join the Learning Center. Did I join?

Well obviously. I’m writing this. 

When I joined my Sophomore year, however, I didn’t feel like I fit in. I was introverted, I didn’t want to talk to anyone, I didn’t know how to bond with anyone… I felt so awkward. Like my presence wasn’t needed. I mean, the other Sophomore out of the two that were in the Center adjusted really quickly. I wanted to be like them. Was I? No.

It took a bit for me to truly understand that I don’t have to be like everyone else there, because I was making a difference. It wasn’t a huge difference, or anything, just helping people with their work… but isn’t that good enough? I think so. 

“But Levi, how does this show how I can be like you?!”

Oh, don’t fret, little one……… What I’m saying is, start off small. I’m not saying join choir or apply to work in the Learning Center to make yourself feel like you fit in. I’m telling you to find your purpose. What interests you in this school? What courses amaze you, what clubs call out to you? Cause once you join a small community like that, slowly, but surely, you’ll feel a little bit more included.

Reflect on what you’re doing and how that’s changing something. Maybe it’s changing others around you, maybe it’s changing yourself. Ever heard of the phrase, “a little goes a long way”? That’s EXACTLY what’s going on here.

I’m yapping at this point. Basically, you’re always making a difference in this school. Even if it’s something small and simple, like smiling to someone in the hallways, saying “Good morning” to your teachers, helping someone with their work… I assure you, that’s you making a difference. That’s you slowly putting yourself out there! It may not seem like much now, but it’ll build up to something great. I bet my wallet if I’m wrong (not guaranteed).