The Truth About Feeling Like a Lie
Imposter Syndrome. It seems reasonable that something like this has been around since the beginning of human history. It’s also understandable that these issues would be magnified in the stressful world we live in today.
Social media has allowed us to connect with the world around us in ways that we could have never imagined just a couple of decades ago, but it’s also created a host of new problems. One of the biggest complaints many people have, especially in this age of “influencers,” is that our online lives can seem shallow and fake. When we only showcase our best moments, it can give the impression that our lives are better than they actually are.
The implications of social media, filters, and photoshop and how they can distort our expectations of ourselves and others. Exhibit A – the show you're watching isn’t just about Kardashians; it’s about keeping up with them.
As a result, we try to create a feed that looks polished and accomplished, and we may feel validation when people like and follow our content, but it can feel like a house of cards for many. Most of us can think of a time when someone questioned our authenticity on social media – that sinking feeling, when you’ve been publicly challenged, can be particularly tough for those dealing with imposter syndrome — especially if the comment comes from someone with a well-manicured, highly-followed profile of their own.
When your world is spinning and it feels like everyone knows you’re a big phony, it can be hard to have some perspective. I’ll readily admit to wanting to crawl into a hole and disappear when my vulnerabilities have been exposed for the world to see, even when it was my own doing.
When you’re feeling doubtful about your skills and worthiness, don’t give in to the temptation to run and hide. Instead, take the age-old advice and fake it ‘till you make it. Put on a brave face and give yourself a chance to get acclimated to a new environment before coming to any conclusions. Sometimes, you just need to embrace your true self, permit yourself to be flawed and get surrounded by people who love and support you through the good and bad. Remember God only makes originals. So while you may think you’re an imposter, you’re really one of a kind.
Southern Style Creamed Cabbage
INGREDIENTS
- 1 medium head of cabbage
- 2 cups half & half or heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, divided
- 2 cups grated Romano cheese
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Blend cream, flour, butter, garlic, onion powder, thyme, and half each of the salt and pepper in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until a thick white sauce has formed. Turn the heat off and keep warm.
- In a separate medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Place cabbage in a steamer set over the saucepan and steam until tender but firm.
- Alternate layers of white sauce, steamed cabbage, and grated cheese. Add remaining salt and pepper for each layer. Romano cheese in a small baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake until sauce and cheese are bubbly, about 30 minutes. You may need to cover loosely after 15-20 min with foil to keep breadcrumbs from browning too quickly.
