Arctic explorer says you must be true to yourself to reach your goals

There’s an old saying – 'fake it ‘til you make it' – that many people have taken as solid career advice, but is that really the case?

If you have goals, surely, it’s better to fully equip yourself with all the skills and resources you need to succeed, rather than just ‘fake it’?

In a time when reality can often be masked by what people actively choose to project, be that on social media or in person, Arden University speaks with established polar explorer and adventurer Mark Wood, who suggests that to really achieve what you want in life, it’s important to be authentic and honest.

Forget ‘fake it ‘til you make it’ and instead, go for ‘be true to yourself’.

Renowned explorer, Mark Wood, who holds an honorary doctorate from Arden University, encourages self-belief and self-worth over all else.

He said: "You must never underestimate who you are as a person, both in terms of your skillset, but also your personality.

"Honesty, humility and even vulnerability help you to achieve your goals because you’re being true to yourself, and that shines through in everything you do and any challenges you take on."

When it comes to taking on a new challenge, such as returning to education as a mature student, at Arden University, learners get pre-arrival support, inductions and introduction sessions to help get them started and to put them at ease, regardless of their knowledge or background.

Work experience and previous qualifications are taken into account, but the student’s outlook is also vital.

Portraying yourself as something you’re not, not only often breeds distrust – as people often see through the façade – but it can also exacerbate imposter syndrome, so overcompensating can actually fuel your inner critic and make you