Betting on Yourself: A First-Gen’s Guide to Unyielding Strength
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Lisette Sanchez, a fellow first-gen Latinx psychologist, whose insights resonated deeply with my own experiences. Our conversation illuminated the core of the first-gen experience: the necessity of betting on ourselves.
The First-Gen Imperative: Confidence Is Non-Negotiable
For us, doubt isn’t a luxury we can afford. Our parents took monumental risks, uprooting their lives for a shot at a better future. They didn’t have a roadmap, just an unwavering belief in possibility. Now, it’s our turn to embrace that same spirit.
This is your invitation to bet on yourself.
Fear is ever-present in our journey, but it’s not our enemy. It’s the fuel that propels us forward. Our ancestors faced fear daily—for them, it was about survival. For us, that same fear is an opportunity for boundless growth. We owe it to ourselves to push beyond the limitations of the past.
Redefining Humility: Owning Your Worth
There’s a pervasive myth that humility means downplaying our achievements. Dr. Sanchez challenges this notion head-on. She advocates for owning our success unapologetically. This isn’t arrogance—it’s acknowledging the obstacles we’ve overcome and the hard work we’ve invested.
As first-gens, we’re often told to stay small, to not draw attention. But true humility isn’t about hiding our light. It’s about recognizing the complexity of our journey and honoring those who paved the way for us.
Healing Through Dialogue: Bridging Generational Gaps
One of the most powerful aspects of Dr. Sanchez’s work is her emphasis on family conversations. These dialogues aren’t just about airing grievances. They’re opportunities to understand the human behind the parent, to contextualize their actions within their own unhealed wounds.
By initiating these difficult conversations, we don’t just free ourselves—we break cycles and create new scripts for future generations. It’s about healing legacies, not just individuals.
The Power of Seeing Ourselves: Representation Matters
“I didn’t realize how oppressive it is to not see ourselves on TV. Seeing you do it helps us come along and see ourselves in more expansive ways,” I shared with Dr. Sanchez. This sentiment encapsulates the transformative power of representation.
For first-gens, seeing ourselves reflected in media, academia, and positions of power isn’t just inspiring—it’s validating. It expands our sense of what’s possible. By creating and seeking out stories that celebrate the first-gen experience, we become beacons for others on this path.
From Dream to Reality: Confronting Fear Head-On
Dr. Sanchez’s journey from a seventh-grade aspiration to a successful psychologist exemplifies the power of self-investment. She didn’t just dream—she took action, despite the fear and uncertainty.
“Bet on yourself. That’s what our parents taught us, by uprooting and striving in a new country; they planted the seed of possibility.”
As first-gens, we often have big aspirations, but the leap from dreaming to doing can be paralyzing. We’re venturing into uncharted territory without a roadmap. But remember: our parents didn’t have a blueprint either. They took a leap of faith. Now, it’s our turn.
What’s the fear holding you back? Is it failure? Not being good enough? Losing connection to your roots? Identify it, acknowledge it, but don’t let it dictate your choices.
Building a Legacy of Empowerment
This isn’t just about individual success. It’s about forging a legacy that empowers future generations. We carry the dreams of those who came before us and the hopes of those who will follow.
It means seeking out spaces that affirm our experiences, building communities that uplift our voices, and creating platforms that expand our possibilities. It means redefining success on our own terms, honoring our cultural roots while embracing new paths.
For me, creating space online isn’t just about seeing faces that look like ours. It’s about dismantling stigma and giving people tools that speak to their lived experiences
Most importantly, it means betting on ourselves, even when the odds seem stacked against us. Because when we believe in our own potential, we ignite a ripple effect of empowerment.
A Call to Action: Bet on Yourself
This is your invitation to bet on yourself. Embrace the fear, harness the strength of your ancestors, and create a future that exceeds your wildest dreams. Your journey is your legacy. Make it one of unyielding resilience, unwavering confidence, and boundless empowerment.
