Imposter syndrome has a talent for showing up right when I’m trying my best to grow. As a beginner in cybersecurity, I often catch myself wondering: Will I ever measure up? Will I ever be good enough? Is there even space for me in this field?
Those questions used to sit heavily on my chest.
I remember one of my first attempts to gain experience I applied for a remote internship. I was excited at first, but the moment I got inside, I felt completely stuck. No clear explanations, no guidance, just assignments that left me staring at the screen wondering if I was in over my head.
I almost quit.
But something in me refused to let the story end there.
So I pushed through and completed it, even though I didn’t feel confident. That small win reminded me that progress doesn’t always feel good it just needs to be consistent.
A little later, I applied for another internship, this time at my base. This one required an interview, and I walked in believing I was ready. Let’s just say the interview politely reminded me that there was much more to learn. Instead of breaking me, it opened my eyes: growth isn’t a straight line, and “not ready yet” doesn’t mean “never.”
One thing this journey has taught me is not to depend on my feelings. Feelings change. They swing. They whisper doubts that don’t match reality. Whenever imposter syndrome tries to convince me I don’t belong, I go back to the promise I picked for the year John 14:1: Do not let your hearts be troubled (distressed, agitated). You believe in and adhere to and trust in and rely on God; believe in and adhere to and trust in and rely also on Me (Jesus).
That verse steadies me.
And so does the truth in Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
I hold onto that on the days I feel small.
On the days I feel behind.
On the days I’m tempted to compare my Chapter One to someone else’s Chapter Twenty.
I’m learning that being a beginner is not a flaw it’s a season.
And seasons change.
I will keep showing up.
I will keep learning.
I will keep giving myself room to grow.
And slowly, brick by brick, the woman who once wondered if she could survive cybersecurity will become the woman others look up to.
