Last week I began Marie Herman's 15-week study group for CAP Certification. I'm nervous and excited to be taking this step, part of my ever constant efforts to rid myself of 'imposter syndrome.' I've been working in the admin field for 31 years; however, it has only been the last 10 years that I've acknowledged I've built a solid career based on my work ethic, loyalty, focus on high-quality work, self-education, and a tremendous set of skills. Although I've only got another 15 (or so) years before I retire, I'm taking the CAP to prove to myself I can accomplish this goal and reinforce I actually do know how to do my job when I say "Of course I can do thus and so!" The majority of my career has been in healthcare consulting, but I also own a business with my husband - and all my administrative skills come into play there on a daily basis - bookkeeping, leadership, planning, management. With 30+ years of work under my belt, failure has crossed my path; however, I don't intend to fail this exam - I've already planned out the next 15 weeks of attendance, my study hours, my accountability procedures and am committed to going the distance. Cross your fingers for me! V-

Marie's class is so solid in preparing you to sit for the exam! My experience is so much the same as yours. As a matter of fact, one of the things I have learned now that I am a part of this community, is that many of us have very similar backgrounds and thought processes. I have found it to be so empowering to be a part of a group of like minded people...it instantly made me feel like I had found "my people" who truly understand what it is to fulfill the admin role. So, just know that you are not alone, but instead have a wonderful community of people who are cheering you on! 

After 31 years of experience, you are not an "imposter". Trust that your experience, skills and knowledge makes you a professional. That said, I completely understand because I have self-doubt from time to time myself. As long as you stick to your plan and keep reminding yourself that you got this, you will pass the exam. I look forward to hearing that you accomplished your goal.

Best of luck in your certification endeavors.

Best wishes on your CAP certification journey.

Marie's study group was key for my success in passing. 

You are more prepared than you realize, Valerie!  I recently did a presentation for via zoom for IAAP members where I talked about Imposter Syndrome.  We talked about how an "imposter" is someone who tries to deceive and defraud others.  THAT'S never what we are experiencing when we are having imposter syndrome.  We are simply experiencing a momentary lack of confidence.   I would love to share the recording of my presentation with you if you want to message me with your email address.  Also, I did five days of follow-up posts on my LinkedIn where I shared more about Imposter Syndrome and ways to replace that negative self-talk with more accurate and encouraging self-talk.  If we're not connected on LinkedIn, let's connect!  Best of luck to you, Valerie.  You have TOTALLY got this and you have the entire IAAP community behind you to cheer you on!

That internal critic can really be challenge to beat into submission, but we are going to turn it into your greatest cheerleader! You can absolutely do this. Your experience proves that you can do a fabulous job. Now to get your brain and heart into alignment! Let's go get you certified!

Thanks to each of you for the encouragement and wisdom. That brain / heart alignment is such a key function for daily living - not just for work-related things. I head-know I'm quite capable of passing this test. That heart-knowing is always a challenge, but it's like I always tell my kids - your feelings are valid and important - but they are not facts. I love reading, love learning, love improving myself. I also actually enjoy tests - I'm very competitive - even with myself. Between my commitment, my existing skills and my study group - I'm gonna nail it!