Participant first heard the phrase during childhood, stating that it was a common phrase “thrown around”. In childhood, an example situation to use it would be “pretend to be popular” and other kids will naturally like you. As they grew older, they started to connect to it more. They used it as a way to combat insecurities and labels, stating, “If I’m not feeling ok, I used to it kinda push through during the moment until I have the time to unpack what I’m dealing with. I prevent unhealthy thinking patterns”. 

Analysis: I think that this goes to show how proverbs can grow with us, and how their meaning can change depending on the context one needs it for. “Fake it till you make it” is particularly interesting, as I think it’s most commonly used as a way to ignore minor issues to tackle the situation at hand. It’s also used in a more reassuring sense, like “You may be having issues/doubts now, but enough prevalence will allow you to make it”.