When she awoke this morning, the promise of the day rocketed her out of bed. Jumping in the shower, she rehearsed in her mind every word she would say. With one last blast of hot air from the hairdryer and a final coat of lipgloss, she eyed her reflection and boldly stated, " flawless." Oozing determination, she bounced out the door, jacket, and bag in hand.

On the short walk to her office building, she repeated her confidence-building mantra. Raising her chin and setting her shoulders, she quickened her step, ready to ask for the position, at last hustling into the building and up the elevator.

As she marched down the hall towards the office, she saw a woman exit, someone she had never seen at the company. Professionally dressed and carrying an extensive portfolio. An interview, she wondered as the woman slowly closed the door behind herself.

All at once, her feet felt like they were slogging through sucking mud. Approaching the door, she could hear her supervisor on the phone, the voice inside a muffle of tones without meaning. She stalled, motionless.

She wanted it; she worked hard for it, she deserved it. Yet, here she stood, frozen in place. Paralyzed, feet nailed to the floor; all she had to do was lift her hand and knock.

Slowly she turned and made her way to her desk. What was she thinking? Did she really think they would seriously consider her?