In a recent LinkedIn post, Janet Kim delves into the often-unexamined habits of self-limitation, particularly how overthinking can hinder personal and professional growth. Writing from her experience, Kim highlights a common yet powerful contradiction: the ease with which we invest in others versus the hesitation we often feel when it comes to investing in ourselves.
Kim begins by illustrating this internal conflict, noting the ease of finding excuses when considering personal pursuits:
“Too expensive. Too time-consuming. I’m not ready. Who am I to do this?”
She describes these self-imposed barriers as feeling “responsible. Measured. Adult.” However, Kim reveals a pivotal moment of realization where she recognized the inconsistency in her own logic.
Challenging the Double Standard
The core of Kim’s argument lies in identifying the “different standard” applied to oneself compared to loved ones. She contrasts her unhesitating investment in her children’s growth and future with her own reluctance to prioritize self-investment. As Kim points out, this isn’t merely a matter of confidence, but one of self-permission.
“Same brain. Same logic. Different standard,” Kim writes, underscoring the arbitrary nature of these self-imposed limitations. She emphasizes that leaders, in particular, do more than just showcase successful outcomes; they must also model the willingness to invest in their own development.
“Leaders don’t just model outcomes. They model what they’re willing to invest in.”
This realization, according to Kim, shifts the focus from overcoming doubt to actively granting oneself permission to pursue growth and opportunities.
Practical Steps to Self-Investment
Kim outlines practical strategies for applying this new perspective:
- Acknowledge that doubt is not the sole voice to be heard when facing decisions.
- Extend the same generosity and belief to oneself as one does to loved ones.
- Reframe self-investment not as an indulgence, but as a responsible and necessary action.
- Actively challenge and discard the harsher standards held for oneself compared to others.
Kim suggests that the true issue is not overthinking itself, but rather identifying who is being protected by these self-limiting beliefs. She posits that once the perception of self-investment shifts from selfish to “just overdue,” decisions become clearer and less fraught with anxiety.
“Once I realized that investing in myself wasn’t selfish, just overdue, the decision got quieter. And clearer.”
The post concludes with a call to reflection, prompting readers to consider areas where they freely invest in others but hesitate to do the same for themselves.
Bridging the Gap: Kim’s Professional Framework
Drawing on her 19 years of experience in tech at Stanford, Kim offers professional services designed to help mid-career and senior professionals achieve clarity and confidence. Her work focuses on clarifying leadership brand, building presence in high-stakes situations, and preparing for career advancements. Kim’s approach, as presented in her ‘playbook’, aims to help individuals be “seen, heard, and valued, where it matters most.” This practical application of her insights on self-investment is intended to empower leaders to model the very principles they advocate for.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Janet Kim on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 7, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →