We were lucky to catch up with Paisley Gibson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Paisley, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Acknowledging and embracing my accomplishments has always been a key to warding off imposter syndrome. And, more so, once I learned how to simply rest in my purpose and began to approach every space from this posture of rest- the constant striving and waves of insecurity that seem to go hand in hand with imposter syndrome be diminished. Now, walking into any room, I am lead by the confidence knowing my purpose is connected that time and place. I’m supposed to be here.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
After 15 years working as a K-12 educator, I recently resigned from teaching and embarked on a new career journey in non-profit arts administration. In this role-Director of Programs, PreK-Elementary Education-I help to design, manage, and implement arts education programs at our partner schools.
I am super passionate about the work of improving access to quality arts instruction and arts integrated curriculum in schools. My dream is to eventually open a school that models this.
My artistic background is in ballet, modern, and contemporary dance styles; and I choreograph and perform with a local dance company, Crossroads Dance Indy.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Interpersonal relationship building is so important because a team is essential for accomplishing most big goals. Being an empathetic listener and effective communicator goes a long way when developing relationships.
Leadership sk.ills. I believe everyone is a leader in some fashion, so just recognizing that potential in yourself and standing confidently in whatever capacity that is for you is a game changer.
I try to prioritize listening over talking. The ability to closely observe a thing is wrapped up in so many other skills.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
I have learned how to stop striving, but rather work from a place rest. That may sound counter-intuitive, but it has really allowed me to live in each moment and recognize what I bring to each space that I occupy. I no longer worry about outdoing myself or anyone else. I don’t compare myself to anyone else, I just know that what is for me is for me.
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Image Credits
Photo credit: Ingrid Damiani Photo credit: Amanda Renzulli
