Attract More Customers Archives - Janette Vogt

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Guide

Janette Vogt — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Ladies, let’s talk.

I’ve had it, you’ve had it, we’ve all had those moments when we question our worth, our abilities, and whether we truly belong. Let’s be real: imposter syndrome happens to the best of us.

We’ve lived half a century, conquered challenges, raised families (or chosen paths that were uniquely ours), navigated careers, and adapted to a world that’s been evolving faster than we can say, “What’s TikTok again?” And yet, despite all that wisdom and experience, there’s this sneaky little voice that creeps in every now and then saying, “Who do you think you are?”

That’s imposter syndrome, and it’s got no business living rent-free in our minds. Let’s kick it to the curb with some practical steps—and a healthy dose of self-love.

1. Recognize the Lies

First things first: imposter syndrome thrives on false beliefs. “I’m not good enough.” “Everyone else has it figured out but me.” Sound familiar? These are not truths. They’re unhelpful stories your brain cooked up based on fear, comparison, and old narratives.

Action Step: When those thoughts show up, label them. Say out loud (yes, even to yourself): “This is imposter syndrome talking.” Separating the voice of doubt from your identity is a game-changer.

2. Own Your Achievements

We’re so quick to downplay our successes. Think back to all the times you nailed it—the moments you solved problems, supported loved ones, or stepped up in ways others wouldn’t have. Write them down. These are receipts of your awesomeness.

Action Step: Keep a “Brag File.” It could be a physical journal or a folder on your phone. Fill it with wins, compliments, and moments that made you feel like a badass. Refer back to it on tough days.

3. Stop Comparing

Social media is a highlight reel, not a reality show. That friend posting about her new promotion? She’s probably fighting her own battles. The truth is, comparison is a trap, and there’s only one person you should measure yourself against: the woman you were yesterday.

Action Step: Take a social media break, or at least curate your feed to include accounts that uplift and inspire you. Life’s too short for toxic scrolling.

4. Reframe the Fear

Imposter syndrome often shows up when we’re stepping outside our comfort zones. Guess what? That’s where growth happens. Feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you don’t belong; it means you’re leveling up.

Action Step: Every time you feel that pang of self-doubt, ask yourself, “What’s the opportunity here?” Let excitement, not fear, lead the way.

5. Talk About It

There’s power in connection. Chances are, the women around you have felt exactly the same way at some point. Sharing your experience not only lightens your load but also normalizes the struggle.

Action Step: Start a conversation. Whether it’s in this group, over coffee, or via text, let someone know what you’re feeling. Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

6. Affirm Your Worth

Affirmations aren’t just for the woo-woo crowd. Repeating positive statements about yourself rewires your brain over time. Think of it as building mental muscle.

Action Step: Pick an affirmation that speaks to you. Here’s one to get you started: “I am experienced, capable, and worthy of every opportunity that comes my way.” Say it daily.

7. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

You’re not perfect, and guess what? Neither is anyone else. The goal isn’t to get everything right; it’s to keep moving forward, learning, and growing along the way.

Action Step: At the end of each day, ask yourself, “What did I do well today?” Focus on progress, no matter how small.

Final Thoughts

Ladies, you’ve earned your place in every room you walk into. The next time imposter syndrome tries to whisper otherwise, remind yourself of this: You’re not here by accident. You’re here because you’ve worked, learned, and grown your way into the incredible woman you are today.

Let’s own it together.

What’s one thing you’re going to do this week to quiet that “imposter” voice? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear!

Peace & Love,

Janette

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A Year Without Alcohol: How I Found Freedom and Clarity

Janette Vogt — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 09:30:46 +0000

Today marks a deeply satisfying milestone for me—one full year without alcohol. For many years, I contemplated going alcohol-free, and after taking two separate five-month breaks, I knew deep down it was the path I wanted to take. But imagining a life entirely free from alcohol? It seemed nearly impossible. After all, alcohol was ingrained in so many aspects of life—celebrations, dining out, Sunday Fundays—it was just there.

What’s interesting is that no one ever asked me to quit or suggested I should. Quite the opposite—most people loved me as “the fun one” when I drank. I was silly, carefree, and happy… until I wasn’t. There came that tipping point—the slurring, the stumbling, the endless repetition. That version of me? I hated her.

So, let’s rewind to where it all began. I’m the youngest in a family of six, and celebrating with alcohol was just part of our world. In fact, my earliest memory of drinking was in third grade. Shocking, I know, but hear me out. On birthdays, we’d toast with champagne. Even as the youngest, I had a tiny glass that grew with age. I learned early to associate alcohol with joy, with celebration.

This carried into high school, where my friends and I drank on weekends—nothing too wild, just a regular habit. Life shifted at 22 when I had my first child. Parenthood and a demanding career pushed alcohol far into the background. Between pregnancies (I had five children!) and the chaos of life, there wasn’t much room for overindulging. But as time went on and my kids grew up, alcohol crept back into the picture—margaritas at birthdays, cocktails on holidays. It felt like nearly every week brought along an event or reason to drink. Back then, it felt normal. Now? I cringe at the thought of my old go-to, a White Russian.

For many years, alcohol wasn’t something I obsessed over. I drank socially at events, dinners, or nights out with friends. The problem wasn’t just the frequency or the amount – it was also who I became when I drank. I didn’t like that version of myself: loud, repetitive, messy, making plans I’d regret. In hindsight, some of the worst moments of my life had alcohol as a key player.

By my late 40s, I knew I needed a change. The hangovers were unbearable, and let’s be honest—no one wants to see a middle-aged woman drunk. But what really hit me was the realization that I couldn’t imagine going out to dinner or an evening event without a drink. I had to carefully count and limit my drinks because I didn’t have an off switch. Two drinks turned into three, which turned into four… and you know how that story ends.

The hardest part wasn’t quitting—it was the mental hurdle of imagining life without alcohol. How could I enjoy Christmas without champagne? Birthdays without a toast? Nights out without that cocktails? It felt daunting, even impossible.

But last year, I made a decision. December 23, 2023, would mark day one of an entire year without alcohol. And now, a year later, I can honestly say it’s the best decision I’ve ever made.

The benefits were immediate and transformative. No more hangovers. No more worrying about what I said the night before. It’s freedom—pure and simple. My sleep improved (though it took a while), my skin glowed, I shed weight, and I found myself with so much more energy. I rediscovered the joy of going out and genuinely having fun without the crutch of alcohol. It reminded me of being young, when life was rich and vibrant without any thought of cocktails or wine. I wanted that feeling back, and I found it.

What began as a one-year experiment is now my lifestyle. If you have a great relationship with alcohol—if you can drink casually and never have to think twice—then you’re one of the lucky ones. But I’m not that person, and I wish I had realized it sooner.

Life is so much bigger, so much brighter, without alcohol weighing it down.

But if you’re struggling, know this: there’s another side of life out there waiting for you, full of freedom, clarity, and joy you might not have imagined yet.

I hope you all enjoy a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and a safe and joyful New Year surrounded by family and friends.

Peace & Love

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