A Different Kind of Mask
Recently I found a series on Netflix called Imposters. Essentially there is a crew of thieves that create lives to leave their victims heartbroken and penniless. You could see glimpses of their true selves in high stress situations or during brief moments of vulnerability. Otherwise they are all wearing their masks and playing their respective parts in the ploy.
Isn’t that something we all can relate to at some point in our lives? Playing our part, acting how we “should,” not wanting to upset someone with our opinions or thoughts. Who wrote these rules for you? I’m guessing you want to rewrite some of them, just like I do.
You either walk inside your story and own it or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness.
Brene Brown
When I think about “hustling for worthiness,” I pause to think about all the times I wanted to “fit in,” to feel worthy, loved and accepted. And then all the hustling. Gosh it’s exhausting. Put on the right mask at the right time for the right people.
I remember the feeling of finally being myself with someone and feeling accepted as I was, truly, fully. Ahh what joy, what relief, what peace. But don’t worry, there are plenty of moments when I still doubt myself.
Each and every day, we get to make a choice of how we will let our story guide us into the future. We get the choice to own our story or continue to hustle.
Here are a few things that I’ve learned that help me:
-Name it, give it a voice, hear it out
Often times, it’s a little voice in the back of our heads telling us this story. Call it out and write it down or say it aloud. Let it go from your head to paper or ears.
-Investigate the truth
We need to comb through this story statement you’ve written down and investigate what parts are true and factual, and what parts are not true.
-Imagine the opposite
Have you heard the saying “what you think about you bring about?” Now is when we can choose a different path of our story. Let’s imagine the opposite of that little voice and test out how it feels. Your brain will look to validate the new truth as long as you keep it in your mind. Don’t hide behind the mask.
Monetary Impact
Have you ever thought about how money impacts your story? Perhaps it plays a role that pops right into your mind. Or perhaps you have to dig into your memories to see how money has been a thread throughout your story.
I want you do to the same 3 things above with your money story – name it, investigate the truth, and imagine the opposite. Money is a tough subject. Don’t let that stop you from digging in. Get curious and imagine how different things could be in a month, a year, or even 5 years.
Put Community in Your Story
Surround yourself with people that will lift you up and support you as you walk this path. Listen to encouraging podcasts like The We Podcast.
