Why Does Chasing Your Dream Feel So Nerve-Wracking?

** me walking at freeport fashion week 2024 in freeport, grand bahama, the bahamas :)

Overcoming imposter syndrome is hard! It’s scary. It’s messy. I literally want to throw up right now lol. 

Today, as I’m writing this, I’ve just uploaded a short-form video to my socials. It’s a declaration of my commitment to chasing my dream of becoming a model. I’m going all in where I can: investing my time, energy, blood, sweat, tears, and (let’s be real) the little money I have into developing myself. I want to grow my confidence and skills in the industry and live the life I’ve always dreamed of.

But as soon as I uploaded it and the (very positive and uplifting) comments started rolling in, I felt nauseous. That all-too-familiar discomfort crept in. The kind that whispers, “Take it down before anyone else can see it.”

Then came the self-limiting thoughts:

• What if it doesn’t work out? How embarrassing would that be?

• Are you sure you have what it takes to pursue this?

• Where are you going to find the time and resources to really give this your all?

Honestly, if I could turn down the volume in my head right now, I absolutely would.

(Alexa, play "Car Radio" by Twenty One Pilots.)

But here’s the thing, I’m trying really hard to combat all these doubts with positive thoughts instead:

• What if it all works out and it’s better than you can even imagine?

• What if you’re way better and more capable than you even know?

• Do you really think God would give you such a big, persistent dream and not help you through it if it’s part of His plan?

It’s incredible how fear can creep in so quickly and threaten to snuff out the excitement of taking a bold step forward. But as much as imposter syndrome tries to take the wheel, I refuse to let it steer my life.

I’m learning that discomfort is just part of growth. It’s a sign that I’m doing something brave, something worth pursuing. Sure, there’s a risk of failure, but isn’t the regret of not trying so much worse? I would hate to look back years from now and think Man , I wish I gave it a shot! 

So today, I’m choosing to believe in possibility. I’m choosing to remind myself that success doesn’t come from perfection or instant results, it comes from showing up, trying, failing, and learning. I’m choosing to trust that God’s timing is perfect, and if I keep taking one step at a time, the path will unfold.

What I’ve Learned About Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

If you’re reading this and struggling with doubts about chasing your own dreams, here’s what I’m learning along the way:

1. Feel the fear and do it anyway.
   Discomfort and nerves don’t mean you’re doing the wrong thing—they’re a sign that you’re stepping out of your comfort zone, and that’s where growth happens.

2. Counter every negative thought with a positive one.
   For every “What if I fail?” ask yourself, “But what if I succeed?” Remind yourself that you’re capable, resourceful, and that the process is just as important as the destination.

3. Break it down into small steps.
   Big dreams can feel overwhelming, but they’re just a series of smaller goals stacked on top of one another. Focus on what you can do today.

4. Surround yourself with the right people.
   Find a support system that lifts you up when you’re doubting yourself. It could be friends, family, or even a community of like-minded dreamers. (Seriously, my eyes started watering at the sight of both friends and people I’ve never met being so kind, encouraging and supportive in the comments of my reel)

5. Trust the timing.
   If this dream has been on your heart for a long time, trust that it’s there for a reason. Your steps are guided. 

A Final Thought

So here’s to chasing dreams, feeling scared, and doing it anyway. Because the life we dream of is worth fighting for, and it starts with showing up today.

Now brb while I still try not to throw up. Lol 

K, Bye!