The Character Invention Technique
We've all been there. Staring at the blank canvas, the cursor blinking, mocking us.
The report that's due.
The speech we're supposed to give.
The idea we're supposed to pitch.
And all we can think is, "Who am I to do this?"
That's self-doubt. That's imposter syndrome.
We're all playing roles. In the office, we're the competent professional. At home, we're the caring parent, the loving partner. With friends, we're the life of the party.
But what happens when we don't feel up to the part? What happens when we think we're just faking it?
We invent a new character.
Strange, I know. But hear me out.
Remember as a kid, playing pretend? You could be a superhero, a princess, an astronaut. You could be anyone you wanted to be. And for those moments, you were. You believed it, and so did everyone else.
Now, apply that to your adult life. You're feeling like a fraud at work?
Invent a character who's the best at what you do. A character who's confident, capable, unstoppable. Then, step into that character.
Blink. Blink. The cursor taunts you.
Your character smirks, cracks their knuckles, begins to type. The words flow, ideas bloom. Suddenly, you're not faking it anymore.
A report is due? Your character thrives under pressure.
A speech to give? Your character loves the spotlight.
An idea to pitch? Your character's ideas are always brilliant.
This isn't about lying or being fake.
It's about tapping into the parts of you that already exist. The confident, capable, unstoppable you. The you that's buried under layers of self-doubt and fear.
Your character is just a tool, a way to bring out that hidden potential. A way to conquer self-doubt and imposter syndrome.
The world's a stage, and we're all actors. Some roles, we're born into. Others, we choose. And some, we invent.
So, invent a character. Step into their shoes. Play the part until it becomes a part of you.
Because, in the end,
Who are you to do this?
You're the one who dared to try.
You're the one who refused to be held back.
You're the one who invented a character,
and then became it.
That's who you are. And that's all you need to be.