The quote essentially suggests that to gain a foothold in the world, one must project an image of success and establishment. It underscores the importance of perception and image in society. In other words, to be taken seriously and to be successful, one must present oneself as if they have already achieved success and establishment.
This idea can be traced back to the concept of ‘fake it till you make it’, a common strategy in personal development and self-improvement circles. It proposes that by imitating confidence, competence, and an optimistic mindset, a person can realize those qualities in their real life and achieve the success they appear to have.
In today’s world, this idea is more relevant than ever, especially in the context of social media. People often present curated, idealized versions of their lives on these platforms. While this can have negative effects, such as creating unrealistic expectations, it can also be a powerful tool for self-branding and establishing oneself in a particular field. For instance, an aspiring entrepreneur might start by projecting an image of success and establishment on LinkedIn or Instagram, attracting potential investors and customers.
Moreover, this strategy is often used in professional settings. For example, in job interviews, candidates are advised to demonstrate confidence and to articulate their skills and experiences in a way that positions them as already capable of doing the job.
However, it’s crucial to balance this with authenticity and genuine growth. While appearing established can open doors, long-term success is built on actual skills, continuous learning, and genuine relationships. It’s about leveraging the power of perception without losing sight of the importance of substance and authenticity.
