from Gospel International - January 2025

UNITY HAS A SOUND

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Your Worth

It was a typical weekday for Renae. The alarm buzzed at 5:30 a.m., pulling her from a restless sleep into the reality of another busy day. Before her feet even touched the floor, the weight of a never-ending to-do list flooded her mind like a relentless tide, each task crashing against her inner peace

Emails to send.

Meetings to lead.

Deadlines to meet.

Appearances to keep

Renae moved through her morning routine like a machine, her mind already in overdrive. The world saw her as a high achiever she was beautiful, driven, successful, and unstoppable. But what the world didn’t see was the overwhelming exhaustion lurking beneath the surface. Despite a full night’s sleep, Renae had become an expert at hiding her mental, emotional and spiritual exhaustion behind a polished exterior She showed up to events she loathed, forced smiles that were rehearsed and navigated office politics with a grace that was nothing short of fake. She collected academic degrees, certifications, promotions, and public accolades hoping they would silence the voice in her head that whispered these loud words to her mind and spirit:

Every day, she ignored her own needs, masked her physical and mental fatigue, and denied herself the luxury of vulnerability. When asked how she was doing, her response was automatic: "I’m fine."

But she wasn’t fine. She was tired of pretending, tired of proving, tired of fighting to justify her place in a world that should already recognize her worth. And yet, the fear lingered.

This is the silent, invisible burden of IMPOSTER SYNDROME the belief that despite your accomplishments, you are an imposter, a fraud, one misstep away from being exposed. Though imposter syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis, it’s a burden carried by countless high-achieving men and women who navigate spaces they’ve rightfully earned but constantly feel like they don’t belong. Renae could easily be named Richard, Carley or Kyle. Renae could also be your teenage daughter or son who is an accomplished athlete but persistently questions and doubts their value despite excelling in their respective sport. Imposter syndrome is not tied to an agegroup, gender, socioeconomic class, ethnicity or profession but it is tied to a mindset. It is also experienced increasingly among minority groups due to the impact of racism, discrimination and microaggressions Countless numbers of people wake up every day feeling like frauds, convinced they don’t deserve their success despite their amazing gifts, talents, contributions and blaring success.

So how do you know if you or someone you know may be suffering from imposter syndrome or potentially at risk for imposter syndrome? Well, I’m so glad you asked

1.Are You a Perfectionist?

Does your motto sound like, “Anything less than perfect is failure?”’

Remember, while striving for excellence isn’t all bad, perfectionism can make you feel like nothing is ever “good enough.”

2.Do You Struggle with Low Self-Esteem?

·Do you constantly second-guess yourself or downplay your accomplishments, even when others praise you? Remember- Low self-esteem creates fertile ground for imposter syndrome to thrive.

3.Are You Obsessed with Achievement?

·Are you driven by an endless need to do more and be more or do you feel constant pressure to maintain your success, even when it’s exhausting?

Remember -High achievers often feel like they’re one step away from being “found out ”

4.Family Matters

Did you ever experience unrealistic expectations from your parents?

·Did you ever feel valued only for what you accomplished, not for who you were?

·Were you frequently compared to siblings or peers growing up?

Answering “yes” to these questions can be a precursor to making self-doubt a lifelong companion

5.Social and Cultural Pressures

Sometimes, the world around us doesn’t make it easy to feel like we belong.

·Being a minority or “the only one” in your field (gender, race, ethnicity) can intensify feelings of inadequacy.

Starting a new job, entering a competitive program, or taking on a new role can amplify selfdoubt

The cost of Imposter Syndrome can be excessive not only costing you mental stress, anxiety and burnout but it can also cause missed opportunities preventing individuals from fully maximizing their potential

Begin Embracing Your Worth

These are some things you can do to mentally shift from feeling like an imposter to embracing your value and worth.

·Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with affirmations of worth and competence.

·Keep a “success journal” to remind yourself of your achievements

·Seek mentorship and surround yourself with people who affirm your value

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Recognize that growth and learning are part of the journey.

·Name It: Acknowledge when you are experiencing imposter feelings.

·Talk About It: Share your experiences with trusted friends or mentors.

·Challenge Comparison: Focus on your unique journey rather than comparing yourself to others

·Accept Compliments: Practice saying “thank you” without deflecting or diminishing your achievements.

Homework: Your Daily Confidence Boost

Whether you believe it or not, you are AMAZING I didn’t say perfect! So, here are two powerful affirmations that I hope will kick imposter syndrome to the curb and remind you every day of just how amazing you are:

"I am inherently worthy, valuable, and enough, just as I am. My presence brings light and purpose to the world!"

"I honor my unique gifts and embrace my divine purpose. I am deserving of love, success, and joy in all areas of my life!"

Say these affirmations out loud Feel the words sink in Because you, my friend, are enough Now go conquer your day with all the confidence you deserve! You are NOT an IMPOSTER You and I are “God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10. Take a moment today to write down three things you’re proud of. Remind yourself you are enough.

Blessings To You, Dr

Jewyl

By Bishop Susie Jones

The 21st Century has brought a shift in what is considered the norm for gender ascribed and achieved roles. A visible platform has been set for all the world to see the elevation and evolution of women in every arena from the local level to the global, especially in the Church World

Culture is not what it used to be and when culture changes our norms change. If you understand the times in which we live then you will understand that today's culture is not going to accept anything less than a progression for women.

It is an age old debate concerning women in the pulpit but if you look at the definition of pulpit (a raised platform or lectern in a church sanctuary or chapel from which the preacher delivers a sermon), truth be told I don't think it's about women being in the pulpit preaching, teaching or praying because those things can be done anywhere in or outside of the church sanctuary but it's what standing in the pulpit represents:

1. A Men's only club. It has been a male dominated field until now.

2 It is a place where the voice of one can influence and impact generations

3 It is a place of power spiritually and naturally

4. It's a place where one can attain Prominence, Prestige and Profit

5. It is a place where we draw people to God

For years women have been relegated to positions in the church that didn't rock the status quo or go against the stereotype that women were not to operate in certain capacities in the church Far too long we've operated in undercover titles that hid our calling and abilities that operated on the same level as our brethren we just went along to get along. Not now. The doors are opening, old stereotypes are being challenged, mindsets are expanding and all the Glory goes to God. What we are used to seeing and what we are now seeing is a changing of the guards and elevation of new Generals that include women .If you change the way you look at things, things will change the way they look

Bishop Susie Jones Senior Pastor of Yahweh's House of Prayer Los Angeles, CA

Let’s Make Some Lasagna Rolls

The holidays have come to a close, and after weeks of feasting on dressing and turkey, your palate craves something fresh and exciting Aunty’s macaroni and cheese was delightful, Cousin’s yams were spectacular, and let’s not forget Ray Ray’s green bean casserole! Each dish was a hit during the festivities and may have even added a few pounds to your waistline.

But now that the new year is here, it’s time to make some changes Our taste buds are ready for a new adventure!

Let’s get creative in the kitchen! This recipe may not be the lightest option, but it’s definitely a delightful departure from the holiday staples and will bring smiles to everyone at the dining table. I made this dish for my mom, and it has quickly become her favorite! So, let’s dive into making some delicious lasagna rolls

Ingredients Needed:

Chicken

Spinach

Onions

Alfredo sauce

Three types of cheese

Cream cheese

Lasagna noodles

Spices

Meal Preparation:

Boil your lasagna noodles until all done. Season and bake your chicken, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Dice two onions. Wash and chop fresh spinach

If you didn’t buy pre-shredded cheese, shred your cheese now In a bowl, mix the chopped chicken, spinach, cheeses, onions, and spices to taste. You can make your alfredo sauce from scratch, or take a shortcut by buying pre-made sauce and enhancing it with fresh garlic and your favorite spices. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Assembly Instructions:

·Spread a thin layer of alfredo sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.

·Lay a lasagna noodle flat on a surface and spread a generous layer of the mixed ingredients on top

Roll the noodle up tightly and place it seam-side down in the pan. Repeat this process until the pan is filled.

·Spread the remaining cheeses, and ingredients over the rolls

·Pour all of the remaining alfredo sauce over the top.

·Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20-30 minutes

Serve these delightful lasagna rolls alongside a fresh salad, and watch as your family enjoys this new twist on a classic dish. This recipe is also incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it for seafood or vegan options. I’ve made it with salmon, shrimp, and crab meat, and it was divine! For my vegan friends, simply use all vegetables, vegan noodles, and plant-based ingredients.

As you embark on your culinary adventures this new year, I’d love to hear about your experiences! Share your photos and stories, and let me know how it turned out for you and your loved ones. Happy cooking!