subject: Can You Fake It? [print this page] "Fake it til you make it." "Fake it til you make it."
I have heard that phrase over and over again for years. At conferences, workshops, and graduate school, as well as from coaches, mentors, and celebrities. But what does it really mean and is it possible to really fake it?
My good friends over at wikipedia state that this catchphrase means "to imitate confidence so that the confidence produces success". It's when people are acting "as if" even though it isn't. But there can be a real danger with this if the "acting" is never partnered with any substance.
For instance, people may act "as if" they are materially successful. Expensive car, designer clothes, fancy vacations, and big houses are all a part of their act. However, if they are not making smart financial decisions or seeing their income increase to support their "act", no amount of "faking" will help them reach their financial goals.
The same can be true when "faking it" in the business world. I once heard a speaker say that "faking it" is a great way to get your foot in the door, get that contract, or make that deal - as people are attracted to confidence and assurance and want to do business with those who exude these characteristics. However, you better be completely focused on getting the tools, education, resources and experience you will need to back it up because at some point, you will be called upon to actually "do it". This speaker had come across many people who could talk a good game, but when it was time to deliver, they struggled. And some never recovered.
Yes, being confident and assured can help you move towards your goals and play a part in your success. But it's not what will keep you there. So go ahead..."fake it til you make it"...just don't forget to make it!
