Self-Imposed Mental Prisons: How We Break Free From Them

How many times have you clicked on a job application link, invigorated by the air of potential opportunity, only to quickly become discouraged with the myriad of ways you “fall short” of the listing’s requirements?

If you’re anything like me, the number is too many. But, what if this mindset is just a barrier standing between you and your career destiny? A wall that appears to be made of impenetrable steel, but is really just flimsy cardboard waiting to be blown down by the rush of confidence that comes with believing in yourself?

What if we're all just living in our own carefully designed, self-imposed mental prisons? Inmates in cells of self-doubt created by our hands alone. 

It stands to reason that the only way out is through reframing how we think of ourselves as working professionals, as worthy applicants, as viable assets to any company lucky enough to have us. 

While the job-search process can seem like a series of several paths all leading to a dead-end, and connections are the saving-grace necessary to get your foot in the door, don’t lose sight of all that you are and all you have to offer as you alone. 

Break through the chains of limiting belief systems, feelings of inadequacy, and the fear of never actualizing your career potential. Success can not be achieved, nor appreciated, without failure.

At 27 years old, I am still seemingly miles from where I want to be career-wise, but when I look back at my years of professional experience, I have to appreciate all the lessons I’ve learned, skills I’ve attained, and knowledge I’ve retained in the process.

We are all an amalgamation of the jobs we’ve led, the relationships we’ve built, and the decisions we make throughout the course of our lives. And, there’s a special kind of beauty in the mosaic this creates.