What Cult Leaders and Instagram Gurus Can Teach Us About Self-Worth (Yes, Really)
By Rachelle & Saskia (Not Your Average Psychic)
Let’s be honest: we are all a little obsessed with cults. Whether we are binge-watching the latest Netflix documentary about a fallen "Messiah," scrolling through the feeds of hyper-convinced Instagram life coaches, or diving into the rabbit hole of questionable spiritual organizations—we can’t look away.
It is fascinating, but it is also triggering.
When you look at a guru who has amassed thousands of followers despite spewing absolute nonsense, or an "influencer" who charges thousands for a course with zero substance, a question inevitably bubbles up: How do they do it?
How do they sit there with such unshakeable confidence, while the rest of us—who actually have skills, empathy, and genuine gifts—struggle to post a single selfie without spiraling into Imposter Syndrome?
The truth is, while we definitely shouldn't copy their ethics (or lack thereof), there is one thing we can learn from the "Master Ohs" and the self-proclaimed prophets of the world: The Vibration of Conviction.
The Paradox of Power and Doubt
Why do people flock to gurus? Psychologically, it’s simple. Standing in your own power is terrifying. When you take full responsibility for your life, your intuition, and your decisions, your human brain naturally generates doubt. Doubt is a safety mechanism.
Following a guru feels "safer" because you outsource that responsibility. You hand over the keys. You don't have to think; you just have to follow the rules.
But here is the catch: We often assume that the guru has "made it" because they have zero doubt. We assume they are enlightened. In reality, they have simply bypassed the human experience of introspection. They have flipped a switch that says, "I am the best," and they refuse to turn it off.
We, on the other hand, usually have an inner voice that sounds less like a powerful leader and more like a nagging neighbor. Let’s call her "Brenda" or "Desiree." She’s the one whispering, "Who do you think you are? You’re just a normal person. Sit down. Don’t be too much."
Stealing the "Guru Vibration" (Without the Narcissism)
So, how do we bridge the gap? How do we stop playing small and start sharing our genuine gifts with the conviction of a cult leader, but the heart of a healer?
We need to realize that "downplaying" ourselves doesn't serve anyone. If you believe—as we do—that we are all souls incarnated with specific talents to guide, inspire, and help others, then staying small is actually a disservice to the Universe.
We need to learn to "counter-act" our inner Brenda. We need to borrow the energy of the guru without buying into the delusion.
The Beyoncé Method: Create Your Alter Ego
One of the most effective psychological tools for this is the Alter Ego. Beyoncé famously used "Sasha Fierce" to overcome her stage fright. She stepped into a persona that was allowed to be bold, sexy, and unapologetic.
You can do the same.
If your current self feels too insecure to launch that business, ask for that raise, or share your art, you need to create a character who can.
Maybe your Alter Ego is "Tony." Tony is loud, takes up space, loves to sing, and cooks a Persian feast for 20 people without breaking a sweat. Tony doesn't care if people think he's "too much."
Maybe your Alter Ego is "Star." Star is unbothered. She is direct, sharp, and taps on the table when she has something to say. She doesn't wait for permission to speak.
Giving this part of yourself a name creates a psychological switch. It allows you to bypass the "I'm not good enough" narrative and step into a frequency of authority.
Healing Requires "Power Practices"
We often think that to build confidence, we need to do more "healing." We need to cry, journal, and analyze our childhood trauma. While awareness is crucial, it is not efficient on its own.
Healing without action is futile.
You can analyze your insecurity for ten years and still be insecure. To actually shift, you need what we call a Power Practice. This is a physical action that forces you to embody the energy of your Alter Ego.
If you need to feel powerful: Go lift heavy weights, do Pilates, or chop vegetables for a massive meal with aggressive precision.
If you need to feel heard: Sing at the top of your lungs (even if you think you can't), or record a voice note where you speak your truth without editing.
If you need to feel authoritative: Send that email you've been dreading, but write it as "Star" would write it—direct and clear.
The Verdict
The world doesn't need more cult leaders. But it does need more conscious, empathetic people who aren't afraid to take up space.
Stop waiting for the doubt to disappear—it won’t. Stop waiting for permission. The "Gurus" didn't wait, and neither should you. Activate your inner Tony, silence your inner Brenda, and remember: you are here to make waves. Own it.
