Why “Fake it Til You Make it” is Bad Advice

The phrase “fake it til you make it” is often heard as advice for those who lack confidence or experience in certain situations. The idea is that by pretending to be confident or knowledgeable, you will eventually become confident or knowledgeable. However, this advice is not as helpful as it may seem. In fact, it can be detrimental to one’s personal and professional growth.

It’s Dishonest

First and foremost, “fake it til you make it” is dishonest. Pretending to know something you don’t or acting more confidently than you feel is not only unethical, it can also damage your reputation. People can usually sense when someone is being insincere, and if they catch you in a lie, it can be difficult to regain their trust. It’s better to be honest about what you do and don’t know, and to work on improving your skills and knowledge.

It’s Unsustainable

Acting like something you’re not can be exhausting. You may feel like you’re constantly putting on a show, which can be stressful and draining. Plus, if you’re faking it, you’re not really learning or growing. You’re just going through the motions. Eventually, the act will become too much to maintain, and you may end up feeling like a fraud.

It Hinders Learning

Finally, “fake it til you make it” can actually hinder your learning and growth. If you’re pretending to know something you don’t, you’re not challenging yourself to learn more. You’re also not open to feedback or constructive criticism, because you’re already acting like you know everything. By being honest about your limitations and seeking out opportunities to learn and improve, you’ll be able to grow and develop more effectively.

While it may seem like “fake it til you make it” is a quick fix for feeling insecure or inexperienced, it’s not a sustainable or effective long-term strategy. It’s better to be honest about what you know and what you don’t know, and to focus on learning and growing. By doing so, you’ll build a reputation for authenticity and competence that will serve you well in all aspects of your life.