Imposter Syndrome: What it Means and How to Overcome It

Some may know what ‘Imposter Syndrome’ is or what it means. However, it is a fact that everyone has experienced its most common side effects. 

Imposter Syndrome is the ‘feelings of self-doubt and personal incompetence that persist despite your education, experience, and accomplishments.’ We see many of these characteristics in our candidates nowadays, especially women. 

In most cases, Imposter Syndrome is usually triggered by those that seek perfectionism and those who come from family dynamics that value successful attributes but would also reject those who have failed to succeed in an already challenging milestone (completing a degree, losing a job, etc.). Imposter Syndrome in candidates, however, is triggered by the mere fact that they qualify for a role that they deem is out of their reach. 

As you read, we will bring up ways to overcome these feelings of Imposter Syndrome as we progress in our careers. 

1. Keep a Journal of your Feelings

   1. It can be difficult to articulate your feelings, especially if you are overwhelmed. The best way to organize your thoughts and emotions is to write them down. Some people use their notes on their phones; some use pen and paper. I’ve even heard some having a google drive of passages expressing their emotions. However you do this, make sure to get it out by any means necessary.

2. Acknowledge Your Accomplishments

   1. When journaling, list your accomplishments in front of you. Try not to make excuses for earning accolades or any awards, as these are still recognitions you have earned. 

3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

   1. Everyone’s journey is different. The path set for you will never be the same as anyone else’s, so why compare oneself to another? Remember to celebrate your milestones as soon as you overcome them. Acknowledge them frequently to help motivate you to keep pushing forward. 

4. Give Yourself Grace

   1. Most of us wear multiple hats or play different roles. From work to parenting to a caring sibling or adult children, you play a significant role in someone else’s life. With this in mind, try not to discourage yourself when something doesn't fall into place. You couldn’t finish that project you were working on because you had a sick child; you were behind on an assignment because of a death in a family; your family member is sick, and you are the only one that can take care of them, so you have to put things on pause. Give yourself some grace because life happens. 

5. Talk to Someone

   1. If you are feeling self-doubt, talk to someone you trust to help you unravel your feelings. A different perspective can help you separate your feelings from facts that others have observed in you. You can also speak with a Therapist about your feelings towards self-doubt. They can assist with uncovering emotional layers that have impacted your way of self-thinking back to your childhood. 

Growth will always start with us as long as we are willing to accept it. Most of us are fearful of going the extra mile due to the limitations we put on ourselves. Change is important for growth, even when it means that we need to change the way we see ourselves. Continue to work on self-improvement, never be scared to talk about your feelings, and always claim peace and manifestation over everything you do. 

Sources: 

(2022, April 4). Impostor Syndrome: What It Is and How To Overcome It. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/a-psychologist-explains-how-to-deal-with-imposter-syndrome/