"When you anchor yourself in your Y-power, imposter syndrome starts to lose its grip because you’re focused on a purpose bigger than yourself."

I’m super excited to share some incredible insights from my podcast episode with the amazing Christi Pratte. If you’ve ever felt those pesky pangs of self-doubt or wondered if you truly have what it takes to go after your dreams, buckle up because this newsletter is about to give you all the feels and the know-how to crush those doubts.

Let’s Talk About Imposter Syndrome

First off, can we all give a huge shout-out to Christi? What a powerful soul! This episode was all about diving deep into imposter syndrome—something I think many of us deal with, whether we admit it or not. Christi reminded us that even experienced pros can feel like a fraud sometimes. But here’s the kicker: understanding and accepting this feeling is the first step to overcoming it.

One of the most transformative takeaways from Christi's message is the idea of embracing your "Y-power". What’s Y-power, you ask? It’s your intention rooted in helping others. It’s that burning reason why you do what you do. When you anchor yourself in your Y-power, imposter syndrome starts to lose its grip because you’re focused on a purpose bigger than yourself.

Finding Your Y-Power

Christi shared how anchoring back into her Y-power helped her push through the fears and the unknowns. And guess what? Your Y-power is always there, no matter how much everything else around you changes. Reflect on your life and career—ask yourself what’s the constant thread that ties it all together? Whatever it is, that’s your Y-power.

Christi's journey from being a kindergarten teacher, boxing instructor, and coffeehouse manager to becoming a powerhouse in women’s empowerment is living proof. Finding your why can make all the difference.

Getting Into the Right Rooms

Another golden nugget from Christi’s experience is the concept of getting into the right rooms. Look, if you want to grow and make your dreams a reality, you’ve got to surround yourself with people who are either farther along or are on the same journey. Attend masterminds, events, and yes, listen to podcasts (wink). These experiences are like little shots of espresso for your vision—they make everything so much clearer and more exciting.

Create Opportunities and Build Confidence

Learning to bet on yourself is crucial. Whether that's reprogramming your brain with books, podcasts, or even pushing past that initial fear of reaching out to someone—you’re planting seeds of confidence in yourself. One actionable tip? Start dialing into your intuition. When you follow your passions and gut feelings, opportunities seem to align themselves almost magically.

Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Christi hired a mentor to help her combat her self-doubt—an excellent move that anyone feeling lost can take. Focus on why you want to pursue your dreams, and don't let the noise distract you.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

And ladies, let’s drop that habit of underselling ourselves! Self-doubt and fear are often just defense mechanisms. Get intentional about your personal motivations, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s from a mentor or a supportive friend, everyone needs a little boost sometimes.

Before I sign off this newsletter, if there's one thing I want you to take away, it's this: get anchored into your Y-power and passion. Feel that fire burning in your soul. Then, go for it. The path may be uncertain, but that’s just a test to see how badly you want it. And trust me, you’ve got this!

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ABOUT SUZANNE PROKSA, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, HHP

I'm Suzanne Proksa. A SHRM-SCP and SPHR certified Human Resources and Business Strategist, IAWP Certified Wellness Coach, AADP certified Holistic Health Practitioner, fierce supporter of women, and autoimmune educator + advocate. My focus is supporting, coaching, and creating programs for women, people-focused organizations, and online businesses so they can positively impact their own lives and those of others.

In my time as an online strategist, I've helped thousands of women gain confidence, establish clarity in their businesses, get visible and drive audience growth, create simple strategies and automation to grow their businesses, crush their tech challenges, and start making sales. During my time in HR, I have launched and led multiple initiatives to enrich and improve company culture and the employee experience. I've had my hands in business nearly my entire life starting when I was a kid selling my creations in my neighborhood. My business Bliss Candles was a Featured Seller on Etsy, featured in the book “How to Make Money on Etsy,” and a community favorite - and also a trailblazer in online marketing for small business.

My work has been published and featured in the Huffington Post, Medium, Thrive Global, the Amazing Women of Influence Summit, and on my beloved podcasts.

I've been honored with nominations for the MISHRM Human Resources Lifetime Achievement Award, the HR Unite! Inspire Award, and the HR Unite! TA Trailblazer Award.

When I'm not loving on my business or being the best HR leader I can be -- I'm lifting up people however I can, strength training, studying all things women's health, geeking out over technology, attending networking events, and working/living in the beautiful oasis I've built at home.

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