What the Joshua Tree Taught Me: Battling Imposter Syndrome

On a recent road trip through Joshua Tree National Forest, I started wondering how these trees got their name, so I did some digging. Turns out, early Mormon settlers thought the branches reminded them of arms pointing to the promised land, like the Biblical prophet, Joshua.

The Joshua Tree became a symbol of resilience for them, and you all know how I love a good symbol for healing! (I didn't earn the nickname "Therapy Mom" from my kids for no reason...haha...symbols and analogies are powerful reminders that help me stay grounded, so I look for them often in the world around me.)

Here's this tree that grows in the harshest desert conditions...hot winds, scorching sun, limited water...but they still grow and thrive! It isn't what most people would call traditionally beautiful. Its arms are bent and twisted, its texture is rough and spiky, and its color isn't exactly vibrant. But still, it became a symbol of inspiration for the people who first settled the area.

I think that’s why it resonated with me…as I’ve stepped further into the role of coach, some self-doubt has crept in. There’s a little voice in my head that says, “Who do you think you are? You don’t have it all figured out. You’re still healing. You still doubt.”

Classic imposter syndrome.

But maybe I can be like the Joshua Tree. A little bit rough, a LOT imperfect, and even a little bit twisted (especially my sense of humor if you know me well… ha!). But hopefully still able to inspire those who are watching me grow and willing to grow with me...the ones willing to come close enough to see what imperfect beauty really looks like.