Getting out of your own way.

Jacob Thompson -

Entering the field of cybersecurity can be a daunting prospect. With its complex technical requirements, niches upon niches, and a steep learning curve, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before even taking the first step. However, one of the biggest barriers isn’t external—it’s internal. The concept of "getting out of your own way" is crucial for anyone trying to transition into or begin a career in cybersecurity. I myself am horrible about get in my own way. Here’s why this mindset matters and how you can embrace it.

The Internal Barriers to Success

Many aspiring cybersecurity professionals inadvertently create obstacles for themselves. These self-imposed barriers often stem from fear, doubt, and misconceptions about the field:

  • Imposter Syndrome: A common challenge in any career, imposter syndrome makes you feel like you’re not good enough, even if you have the skills and knowledge.
  • Overwhelming Information: Cybersecurity is a vast field, and the sheer volume of topics can lead to analysis paralysis.
  • Fear of Failure: The fear of making mistakes can prevent you from taking the necessary risks to grow and learn.
  • Perfectionism: Waiting until you feel completely "ready" can result in missed opportunities.

The Importance of Mindset

"Getting out of your own way" means adopting a mindset that fosters growth, learning, and resilience. It’s about silencing the inner critic, taking actionable steps despite uncertainties, and embracing the journey rather than fixating solely on the destination.

Steps to Overcome Internal Barriers

  1. Shift Your Perspective:
    • See challenges as opportunities to learn rather than threats to your competence.
    • Accept that making mistakes is an integral part of learning in cybersecurity. Failure is always an option, as long as you fail forward. Learn from the failure and use it.
  2. Start Small, Stay Consistent:
    • Instead of trying to learn everything at once, focus on one area, such as networking fundamentals or cybersecurity basics.
    • Dedicate consistent time to learning, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day.
  3. Embrace Community and Mentorship:
    • Join cybersecurity forums and Discord groups, attend meetups, or engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn.
    • A mentor can provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights to help you navigate the field. There are several places where you can find mentorship for free or no money, like the HackSmarter Discord where I am a mentor.
  4. Take Action Over Perfection:
    • Apply for internships or entry-level positions even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. Employers value passion and a willingness to learn.
    • Start small projects like setting up a home lab or participating in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. Both of these helped me immensely. Tryhackme and Hack The Box are great places to start.
  5. Celebrate Small Wins:
    • Completing a course, earning a certification, or solving a problem are milestones worth acknowledging. Share them and be proud of them!
    • Even small victories build confidence and momentum. Small victories add up to large wins.
  6. Develop Resilience:
    • Cybersecurity can be challenging and mistakes are inevitable. Learn to view setbacks as temporary and focus on the lessons they bring.

Breaking Into Cybersecurity

Once you’ve embraced the mindset of getting out of your own way, combine it with actionable steps to accelerate your journey:

  • Gain Foundational Knowledge: You can’t break a website or a network without knowing how they work. Start with courses on networking (e.g., CompTIA Network+), cybersecurity basics (e.g., Cybrary, Udemy), and programming. There are even Youtube channels dedicated to just the fundamentals.
  • Earn Certifications: Entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+, TCM Security's PJPT, and PWPA are great to start with.
  • Build Hands-On Experience: Experiment with penetration testing tools, explore cybersecurity simulations, or contribute to open-source projects.
  • Network Strategically: Connect with industry professionals, attend cybersecurity events, and seek internships to gain practical exposure.

The Long-Term Benefits

Adopting this mindset not only helps you break into cybersecurity but also equips you with a resilient, adaptive approach that’s invaluable throughout your career. The field requires constant learning, problem-solving, and a proactive attitude—qualities that thrive when you’re not standing in your own way.

Conclusion

What are you currently standing in your way over? What can you do today to help yourself?

Getting out of your own way is a powerful concept for anyone pursuing cybersecurity. By addressing internal barriers and embracing a proactive mindset, you can navigate the challenges of this dynamic field with confidence. Remember, the most important step is to begin. Every action, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals.