We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kiana Renee a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kiana, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Imposter syndrome often manifests as a fear of being exposed as unqualified, and for many, this stems from a perceived lack of experience or expertise. This feeling can be daunting, but there are ways to overcome it.
For me, the sensation of being “exposed” was linked to doubting my own qualifications and feeling out of place in certain settings. To combat this, I began by envisioning how someone with the necessary experience might act. By emulating those behaviors and embodying the traits I admired, I tapped into the confidence and abilities I had within me all along.
This approach allowed me to gradually realize that I truly belonged in those spaces. As I continued to practice these attributes, my initial fears of being a fraud diminished, and I embraced my rightful place in my professional environment. By acknowledging and harnessing my inner strengths, I was able to quiet the doubts and fully participate in my own success.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am Kiana Renee also known as Craziiki, a dynamic spoken word artist who captivates audiences with a unique blend of thought-provoking poetry and powerful stage presence. Specializing in themes of philosophy, emotions, and both personal and social intellect, Drawing inspiration from the great philosophers and the intricate tapestry of human emotions, I weave poetic narratives that challenge, inspire, and resonate deeply with listeners. With each performance, I invite audiences to embark on a journey of reflection and introspection, encouraging a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, publishing two poetry books “Mature Emotions” and “Mature Actions” in my “Mature” trilogy.
I have been honored to grace the stages of prestigious poetry slams and spoken word festivals, including Black Girl Art Show.
Committed to using poetry as a tool for social change, I actively participate in workshops and community events that promote literacy and personal expression among diverse groups.
Through my poetry, I seek to unravel the mysteries of our inner worlds and the society we inhabit. I believe in the transformative power of words and strive to connect with audiences on a level that transcends the superficial, fostering a shared sense of understanding and enlightenment.
Whether performing on stage or engaging in thoughtful dialogue, I hope to continue to push the boundaries of spoken word, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to witness their artistry.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Confidence and knowledge have been pivotal in shaping my journey and achievements. While confidence often seems like a deeply personal journey, it is a skill that can be cultivated with dedication and practice. For me, this growth was significantly enhanced through communication and speech classes, which equipped me with confidence-boosting skills. These classes addressed challenges such as stage fright, pacing, and audience engagement, allowing me to present my work authentically and effectively.
In my poetry, I focus on themes of self and social awareness, emphasizing how personal growth can lead to community betterment. This required a deep understanding of the subjects I write about. Although I pursued a degree in Sociology, I ventured further into philosophies that could inspire and uplift the community. This exploration highlighted the importance of continuous learning, which I passionately advocate for. Learning is an ongoing process, and resources are abundant. For instance, platforms like YouTube offer a wealth of free audiobooks and lectures, which I have utilized extensively to expand my knowledge and understanding. My advice is simple: remain open to the endless opportunities for learning and growth that surround us.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
I have been profoundly influenced by the works of Neville Goddard, a renowned Barbadian writer, speaker, and mystic. Goddard’s teachings focus on the power of the human imagination and its role in shaping reality. Through his writings, I have learned to harness my imagination to test and manifest my beliefs, ultimately guiding the direction of my life and creative career.
Some of Goddard’s most impactful teachings include:
Imagination and Faith: Goddard posits that “Imagination and faith are the secrets of creation,” highlighting the transformative power of believing in one’s creative potential.
The Law of Assumption: He encourages individuals to “rest in the assumption that you are already what you want to be,” emphasizing the importance of visualizing and embodying one’s desired state.
Change Your Conception of Yourself: Goddard suggests that by altering your self-conception, “you will automatically change the world in which you live,” underscoring the profound effect of self-perception on one’s external reality.
These insights have been pivotal in my journey, enabling me to envision and manifest the life and career I aspire to achieve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theekianarenee.net
- Instagram: @craziiki
- Other: https://a.co/d/fQOGn9m
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.