Exploring 'Fake It Til You Make It': The True Story Behind the Phrase

The phrase 'fake it till you make it' has been a popular approach to bootstrapping confidence and skills for many years. However, the effectiveness and sustainability of this approach have been subject to debate. Some believe that by adopting a confident demeanor, one can eventually inspire genuine confidence and skill. Others argue that it's merely an insincere practice that leads to a false life. This article will explore both sides of the argument with real-life examples and personal stories to provide a balanced view.

The Concept of 'Fake It Till You Make It'

'Fake it till you make it' is an expression that suggests imitating the characteristics of success to eventually achieve it. This approach is often used in various aspects of life, such as career advancement, public speaking, and personal relationships. Supporters of this idea argue that it can help individuals gain the confidence they need to succeed by pretending to have qualities they lack. Critics, however, argue that it can lead to unsatisfying outcomes and a false sense of achievement.

A Personal Experiment: Faking Confidence

To test the validity of this concept, I decided to conduct a personal experiment. I read an article suggesting that one could increase confidence by spreading out and sitting with arms wide. This technique is based on the idea that physical posture can influence mental states. I followed the advice and attended a meeting that evening. To my astonishment, person after person approached me with questions, assuming I was in charge. The explanation for this turned out to be simple - my posture made me appear as if I owned the place and was running the show.

That evening, I realized that sometimes, faking it can indeed work. However, it is important to understand the limitations and potential pitfalls of this approach. Faking confidence is a temporary solution and may not result in lasting success or true confidence. It is crucial to recognize that faking it till you make it can be misleading and may not lead to genuine growth and happiness.

The Downfall of Faking It

Unfortunately, I was a prime candidate for the pitfalls of fake it till you make it. My journey began at the age of 12, when I first started using various escapes to cope with my feelings. One of the earliest tactics was inhaling deodorant from a bag, which continued for a year. Later, I turned to alcohol and medication to numb my pain. I left school at 18, and the following three decades were marked by a cycle of self-destruction hidden in secrecy.

I eventually rose to the level of a Director of Services at a large corporate, where I was adept at appearing on top of my game. However, by night, I was struggling with a cocktail of painkillers, anti-anxieties, and sleeping pills. My weekends were filled with more substances, and I continued to project a persona of confidence in boardrooms. This facade held until the stress at work finally broke me. A mental breakdown led to my leaving the corporate world, and I now earn a minimum wage through odd jobs like gardening and dog walking. Today, I am free from the chains of substance abuse, and life is simpler but better without the facade.

Conclusion: The Importance of Authenticity

In conclusion, while the phrase 'fake it till you make it' can provide a temporary boost in confidence, it is ultimately unsustainable and can lead to a false life. The key to lasting success and genuine happiness lies in being authentic and addressing underlying issues. It is crucial to recognize that material wealth is not the answer to true satisfaction. By being honest with ourselves and others, we can build a life that is fulfilling and sustainable.