Then there is fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of making the wrong choice and being shamed for your failure. Fear “they” were all right all along (whoever “they” are). Fear you won’t be able to pay the bills. Fear you will be seen, not for your valid contributions, but your shortcomings—fear of your own insecurities and lack of knowledge.

My alarm rings in my ear. I turn over my phone to see 5:30 am staring back at me as I swipe right to dismiss the melodious tune. I stir myself awake, peeking through my eyelids, the sun glimmering through my drapes. I start thinking through the day. I wrestle with picking up my phone first thing and start scrolling through my feeds. My mind becomes more alert and sits my body upright.