Business

You Belong in the Room — Exploring Impostor Syndrome from a Black Perspective

Published

4 years ago

February 7, 2023

Adam T

In late 2018, Michelle Obama embarked on a book tour for her memoir Becoming, which sold more than 2 million copies in the U.S. and Canada within 15 days of its release and hit bestseller lists around the globe Read more: Platincoin.

Yet during an appearance at a London school, when asked how she felt about being seen as a symbol of hope, the former first lady admitted she still suffers from impostor syndrome.

“It doesn’t go away, that feeling that you shouldn’t take me that seriously,” Obama replied. “I share that with you because we all have doubts in our abilities, about our power and what that power is. If I’m giving people hope then that is a responsibility, so I have to make sure that I am accountable.”

People in all walks of life are affected by the persistent inability to believe their success is legitimate and due to their efforts, knowledge, or skills. While as many as 70% of Americans have experienced these feelings, known as impostor syndrome, research shows a racialized component that intensifies its impact on the mental health of Black individuals.

What Is Impostor Syndrome?

In an article published by Medium, Maryville University associate professor of strategic communication and leadership Dr. Leilani Carver-Madalon defines impostor syndrome as the experience of someone who “feels like a fraud, intellectually and/or professionally. People who are experiencing imposter syndrome feel like they are not good enough, like they don’t belong and/or that they are a fraud, and it is only a matter of time before they will be found out.” The term “impostor syndrome” was coined in 1978 by American psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes, who believed that women were less likely to internalize success.

Subsequent research has found that impostor feelings are not limited to women, and that they interact with racial discrimination to particularly affect people of color. “Imposter syndrome limits people because they never feel like they are truly successful. Underneath the façade there is often a lack of confidence,” Carver-Madalon continues, adding that another possible downside is that impostor syndrome may prevent people from acting on their ambitions — applying for the “safe job” rather than the dream job — and they may regret that decision in the future.

Why Impostor Syndrome Is More Prevalent in Black Individuals

Black men and women are particularly vulnerable to impostor syndrome, both in the workplace and in day-to-day interactions. In a HuffPost article titled “Imposter Syndrome Hits Harder When You’re Black,” author Jolie A. Doggett notes that for Black individuals, impostor syndrome isn’t just an imaginary voice in their heads.

“We can hear it loud and clear when we receive almost daily messages from society that we truly don’t belong,” she writes. “This feeling of otherness is a common occurrence in the workplace where, too often, we may be the only person of color present.”

Causes of Impostor Syndrome in the Workplace

Lack of representation in senior leadership roles: Only 3.2% of senior leadership roles at large, U.S.-based companies are staffed by Black professionals, according to a 2020 Coqual study.
Prejudicial attitudes: 58% of Black professionals report having experienced racial prejudice in the workplace.
Performance expectations: Approximately two-thirds of Black professionals feel they need to work harder to advance.
Lack of support: Black professionals may lack access to higher-level managers and professional development resources, and may also experience wage gaps.
Workplace environments: Workplace culture is often built around dominant white identities, making it difficult for Black people to fit in socially.

Causes of Impostor Syndrome in Society

Societal messages that people of color don’t belong, such as being followed by security while shopping
Internalization of various microaggressions, such as being asked, “Why are you flying in first class?” or the assumption that Black students were accepted into college on athletic scholarships
Lack of representation in elected office and the media

Common Patterns Among People Experiencing Impostor Syndrome

People who struggle with impostor syndrome share several common traits. Prevalent among these are self-doubt, fear of being exposed as a fraud, and an inability to own and internalize success. Others include self-sabotage via procrastination, negative self-talk, and perfectionism.

In some cases, people in a new job or embarking on a career change temporarily experience symptoms of impostor syndrome. However, if these feelings linger, they can negatively impact job performance. This can spur a self-fulfilling prophecy, externally confirming feelings of self-doubt.

Systemic racism can compound these feelings. Black professionals who doubt themselves, even when they’re eminently qualified, are less apt to ask for a raise or apply for a promotion. These feelings are often rooted in measurable bias: for every 100 men promoted into management, only 58 Black women are promoted, according to a recent study from McKinsey and LeanIn. Coqual reports that 19% of Black professionals believe that someone of their race could never achieve a top position at their company.

Tips to Overcome Impostor Syndrome

While oppressive systems and cultures must be dismantled to truly alleviate the high rate of impostor syndrome in Black individuals, there are some steps that Black people can take to ward off impostor feelings.

Create a “brag-on-me” list: If you struggle with impostor syndrome, create a list of your accomplishments and attributes. Do you have skills or qualifications, such as speaking a foreign language, that your colleagues don’t? You may want to compile awards, diplomas, or accolades you’ve received in a “brag book” to review before a job interview or annual review.
Practice positive self-talk: Lots of people repeat sayings to themselves, which psychologists call scripts. Although some scripts are positive (“I can do this!” before a tough workout), others are negative. If you fall into saying things to yourself that you would never say to a friend or colleague, stop, regroup, and shift your inner mono
Own your accomplishments: Black professionals who struggle with impostor syndrome may be quick to attribute their success to others. Instead of saying that the only reason you accomplished a task was because of luck or help from a colleague, recognize your own efforts. If you struggle to do this, every evening make a list of all that you accomplished that day. This can be a powerful tool for building self-confidence.
Accept that it’s OK to make mistakes: Impostor syndrome and perfectionism often go hand in hand. Although wanting to exceed others’ expectations is healthy, striving to be perfect is not only unrealistic, it can spur anxiety and exhaustion, and enhance the sense of being an impostor. Accept your failings, and understand that making mistakes is OK.
Celebrate Black achievements: Throughout history, Black Americans have achieved milestones that have shaped the modern world. Remember people like Shirley Chisholm, who in 1969 was the first Black woman elected to Congress, and in 1972 became the first African American to run for a major party’s presidential nomination. Remember Benjamin O. Davis, who in 1940 became the first Black general in the U.S. Air Force. Celebrating and publicizing these accomplishments normalizes Black excellence.
Seek out support resources. One way to gain confidence is to seek advice from others who have overcome challenges, including through books, podcasts, and websites. For instance:
- Minda Harts’ book, The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table, provides actionable advice for Black women who face workplace challenges ranging from unequal pay to microaggressions.
- Podcast Balanced Black Girl offers insight on impostor syndrome, self-love, and personal reflection.
- The website Therapy for Black Girls works to destigmatize mental health and encourage wellness for Black females.

Learning How to Thrive

Overcoming impostor syndrome can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Accept your skills, accomplishments, and that your voice deserves to be heard. When you make mistakes or feel unworthy, talk to people you trust about what’s harming your confidence. Focus on the facts, such as your qualifications, instead of your feelings. Flip your script from negative self-talk to positive affirmation. Remember, the most important tip in growing past impostor syndrome is to shift your perspective. You’ve got this.

Business

What Causes Streaks on Windows After They’re Cleaned?

Published

1 week ago

September 30, 2026

Adam T

You spend an afternoon washing every window in the house or office, step back to admire your work, and then the sunlight hits the glass. Suddenly, streaks, smears, and cloudy patches appear everywhere. Streaky glass is one of the most common cleaning frustrations, and it often has little to do with effort. That’s a big reason professional window cleaning crews consistently deliver streak-free results for both residential and commercial properties: they control every factor with the right equipment and technique. Below are the most common causes and why so many homeowners and business owners choose to leave the job to the pros.

The Wrong Cleaning Solution

Many store-bought glass cleaners contain soaps, dyes, or ammonia that leave a thin film on the glass. Using too much product makes it worse, since the extra solution dries before you can wipe it away. For small DIY jobs, a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water works well. Professional cleaners use commercial-grade solutions formulated to lift dirt without leaving residue — a difference that shows on storefronts and office glass where first impressions matter.

Dirty or Low-Quality Squeegees

A nicked, worn, or dirty squeegee blade skips across the surface and leaves thin lines. Replace the rubber edge when it becomes rounded, wipe the blade after every stroke, and store it so the rubber isn’t pressed against hard surfaces. Professional cleaners use commercial-grade squeegees, replace blades regularly, and carry extension equipment for high windows — tools most homeowners and office managers don’t have on hand.

Cleaning in Direct Sunlight

Warm glass causes cleaning solution to evaporate before you can wipe it away, leaving soap and dirt behind. For DIY cleaning, work on overcast days or in the early morning. Professional crews schedule and sequence their work around sunlight and shade, which is one reason results are more consistent — especially on properties with large glass surfaces.

Hard Water Mineral Deposits

Tap water contains calcium and magnesium that dry on glass as white spots or a cloudy haze. Distilled or filtered water helps prevent new deposits. For existing buildup, a vinegar solution or mineral-removal cleaner can dissolve the staining. Professional cleaners carry specialized treatments for heavy deposits and can restore glass that looks permanently stained — a common problem on commercial storefronts and homes with irrigation systems near windows.

Dirty Cloths and Poor Technique

Cloths holding dirt, grease, or fabric softener spread residue across clean glass. Use lint-free microfiber, wash without fabric softener, and swap for a fresh cloth once it’s damp. Technique matters just as much: wiping in circles pushes dirt around, and skipping frames lets dirty water drip onto clean panes. Work top to bottom in straight, overlapping squeegee strokes, wipe the blade after each pass, and finish edges with a dry cloth.

The Value of Professional Window Cleaning

Whether you own a home or manage a commercial property, professionally cleaned windows offer more than clear glass. They let in more natural light and, for businesses, signal professionalism to every client who walks through the door. Regular service also extends window life. Dirt, mineral deposits, and oxidation wear down glass and seals over time. Catching those issues early costs far less than replacing windows — protecting home value for residential clients and keeping commercial buildings looking well-maintained year-round.

Final Thoughts

Streaks come down to a few fixable causes: residue-heavy cleaners, worn squeegees, dirty cloths, direct sunlight, hard water, and poor technique. Each is manageable with the right knowledge. But for homeowners who want lasting results without the trial and error, and for businesses where clean windows affect how customers see the property, professional window cleaning delivers consistency, safety, and care that’s hard to match on your own.

Business

How to Make Your Next Rental an Investment That Pays Off

Published

1 week ago

September 30, 2026

Adam T

Buying a rental property is only the first step. The real returns come from how you run it month after month. Smart choices about location, pricing, tenants, and upkeep separate profitable rentals from money pits. Many successful investors also rely on professional property management services to handle the daily work and protect their income. This guide covers the strategies that matter most and shows where expert help can make a measurable difference.

Choose the Right Property

A profitable rental starts with the right purchase. Look for neighborhoods with steady job growth, good schools, public transit, and nearby shopping. These features attract reliable tenants and support long-term value.

Run the numbers before you buy. Compare expected rent against your mortgage, taxes, insurance, and repair costs. An experienced property manager can review local rental demand and realistic rent ranges, so you avoid overpaying for a property that won’t cash flow.

Set Competitive Rent

Pricing too high leads to empty months. Pricing too low leaves money on the table every year. The goal is a rate that matches the market and draws quality applicants quickly.

Research comparable units nearby, and adjust for size, condition, and amenities. Professional managers track local rental trends closely. They can price your unit accurately and recommend fair increases at renewal time.

Reduce Vacancy Rates

Every vacant month cuts into your annual return. To keep units filled:

Advertise on multiple rental platforms with clear photos and detailed descriptions
Respond to inquiries within hours, not days
Prepare the unit for showings as soon as a tenant gives notice
Offer renewal terms early to keep good tenants in place

Property managers often fill units faster because they have established marketing systems and dedicated staff to handle showings.

Screen Tenants Carefully

One bad tenant can wipe out a year of profit through unpaid rent, damage, or eviction costs. Thorough screening is one of the best ways to protect your investment.

A solid process includes:

Credit and background checks
Income and employment verification
Rental history and references from past landlords

Screening must also follow fair housing laws. Professional managers apply consistent, compliant criteria to every applicant, which lowers your legal risk and improves tenant quality.

Keep Up With Maintenance

Well-maintained properties attract better tenants, command higher rent, and hold their value. Schedule regular inspections, service major systems like furnaces and water heaters, and fix small problems before they grow.

Quick repairs also keep tenants happy and more likely to renew. Property managers have networks of trusted contractors, which usually means faster response times and fair pricing. They also handle after-hours emergencies, so you don’t have to.

Track Your Financials

You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Keep detailed records of rent collected, expenses, repairs, and taxes. Review your cash flow and return on investment regularly to spot trends and plan upgrades.

Professional managers provide monthly statements and year-end reports that simplify tax season. Their consistent rent collection systems, including online payments and firm late-fee policies, also create steadier, more predictable cash flow.

Why Professional Management Boosts Returns

Many landlords see management fees as a cost to avoid. In practice, the right manager often pays for themselves through shorter vacancies, better tenants, fewer legal mistakes, and lower repair bills. Just as important, you get your time back. That makes it easier to grow your portfolio without growing your workload.

Putting It All Together

A rental pays off when you buy in the right location, price it well, keep it occupied, and care for it consistently. Careful tenant screening and clear financial tracking protect your income over the long run. Professional management strengthens each of these areas with market expertise, reliable screening, legal compliance, trusted contractors, and steady cash flow. For most investors, that support turns a good property into a truly rewarding investment.

Business

How to Build a Balanced Car Performance Setup

Published

1 week ago

September 30, 2026

Adam T

Introduction

Building a performance car is more effective when every major system is considered together. Increasing engine power without improving braking, cooling, or tire grip can create an unbalanced vehicle. A thoughtful build focuses on how components interact and sets clear priorities based on the intended use of the car.

Define Your Goal First

Start by deciding whether the car is mainly for commuting, spirited road driving, towing, or occasional track use. Each purpose requires a different balance. A daily driver may benefit more from reliability and responsive handling, while a track-focused vehicle may need additional heat management and specialized components.

Build a Strong Foundation

Maintenance should come before performance modifications. Check the engine, cooling system, brakes, suspension, and drivetrain for existing problems. Replacing worn components creates a reliable foundation and makes it easier to evaluate later upgrades. It also reduces the risk of new performance parts exposing weaknesses in older systems.

Balance Power With Grip and Braking

More horsepower is useful only when the vehicle can transfer it to the road and stop effectively. Quality tires, suitable brakes, and controlled suspension should be considered alongside engine upgrades. Cooling is also important because additional power can increase heat. When researching compatible performance products, aro speed can be a useful source to explore.

Upgrade Gradually

Installing everything at once can make a project expensive and difficult to troubleshoot. A staged approach allows you to test each modification and decide what the vehicle actually needs next. Keep notes about changes, maintenance, and driving behavior so you can identify what works and what does not.

Conclusion

A balanced performance setup is built around clear goals, reliable maintenance, and compatible components. Focus on the complete vehicle rather than maximum power alone. By upgrading gradually and considering tires, brakes, suspension, cooling, and engine performance together, you can create a car that is enjoyable, dependable, and well suited to its intended use.