If you don’t want to suffer from imposter syndrome, don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. I got to experience an in-your-face situation today attending a chiropractic seminar in my sister’s stead. She went to chiropractic college for her doctorate straight from the local community college. I’ve attended school for twice as long as she ever did; and yet, I only have a master’s degree and not a doctorate, yet. She ran her own practice for several years, had multiple business ventures, and maintains her license to practice in two different states despite having a personal disability due to multiple pelvic surgeries. I’ve spent the past three decades fighting to survive through severe depression, multiple bouts of homelessness and unemployment, and frequent emotional flashbacks from complex PTSD. It was extremely difficult to grow up in the shadow of the athlete with straight A’s, but now, I’m so glad I don’t have to live in her shoes. Not only do they hurt my feet, but her life totally cramps my style. I prefer my life of freedom and integrity where I can huddle up by myself and write to my heart’s content on whatever form of paper happens to be available instead of hobnobbing with doctors and lawyers at a cold stadium, even though they do display a magnificent spread.