The Most Powerful Affirmation for Leaders: "I Belong Here"

In this episode of Success as an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue explores the theme of belonging and self-doubt in leadership. She vulnerably shares how, despite her accomplishments, she often whispered "I don't belong here" in professional settings. Through a series of meaningful coincidences at a networking event called Be the Bean, Janel receives powerful affirmations that she does belong. Drawing on Harvard's Counterclockwise Experiment, she highlights how mindset shapes reality, encouraging listeners to replace negative self-talk with affirmations like "I belong here" — because owning your place is at the heart of true leadership.   Timestamps Introduction to "Success as an Iceberg" (00:00:03) The host introduces the podcast's theme: exploring the unseen struggles and perseverance behind success and the importance of belonging. The Habit of Comparison (00:00:54) Janel discusses the natural human tendency to compare ourselves to others, often focusing on their external accomplishments versus our internal feelings. Sharing Personal Vulnerabilities (00:02:26) Janel vulnerably shares her own deep-seated feeling of not belonging in certain rooms, despite her outward success and accomplishments. The "Be the Bean" Networking Event (00:03:27) Janel recounts attending a networking event and explains the "Be the Bean" metaphor, which is about positively changing your environment. Key Principles of "Be the Bean" (00:05:50) A breakdown of the core ideas from the networking group: transform your environment, create positive change, and build community. First "I Belong Here" Moment (00:07:06) During a networking exercise, a partner shares how seeing Janel made her feel she belonged, confirming Janel's prayer about the episode. Second "I Belong Here" Moment (00:08:08) A second networking partner affirms "you belong here" after Janel shares her need for a website builder, providing another sign. The Illusion of Success (00:10:24) Leaders who only show their wins can make others feel inadequate, whereas sharing vulnerabilities is more inspiring and relatable. Overcoming Self-Doubt in Leadership Roles (00:11:38) Janel reflects on past leadership roles where she initially felt she didn't belong but eventually realized her value and contributions. The Discomfort of a New Venture (00:15:26) After leaving a long-term job to start her own company, Janel describes the return of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. A Student's Transformation (00:16:40) Janel shares the pride of seeing a student who once felt out of place confidently own the stage during a presentation. The Third "I Belong Here" Confirmation (00:17:51) A mentor confirms Janel's place on stage at an event, providing the third sign that she should create this episode. You Belong Because You Are You (00:18:59) An encouragement to listeners that they belong because of their unique gifts, experiences, and strengths, not by comparing to others. The Power of Your Thoughts (00:20:17) Janel explains that your mind and body believe what you tell them, whether the thoughts are negative or positive. The Counterclockwise Experiment (00:21:20) A 1979 Harvard study is cited, showing how changing men's environment and mindset physically reversed some signs of aging. Using Positive Affirmations (00:25:36) Janel commits to using positive affirmations to reprogram her brain and combat negative self-talk about her new business venture. Conclusion and Final Encouragement (00:27:56) The host closes by encouraging listeners to share the episode, keep doing the hard work, and believe they belong.   Powerful Quotes from the Episode  'I have whispered to myself, "I don't belong here," and I immediately start comparing myself to others in the room.' 'I quickly turned my thinking around to, "I do belong here."' 'I have had to learn that I belong here because of what I bring to the table, and it is okay if it is different.' 'You belong here because you are the only one who can be you.' 'Believe that you belong here, wherever your here is.'   RESOURCES: Connect With Me: Janel Donohue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/ LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeldonohue/ FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify   "Belonging begins the moment you stop comparing yourself and start owning who you are."   Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com Contact us for expert podcast production and support.