Is Imposter Syndrome Getting In The Way of Your Success?
Imposter Syndrome, is the persistent feeling of not being good enough and the fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite having a lot of competence and success in life and in your careers. It can affect just about anyone, no one is completely immune. Yet it can really get in the way of being your best self. Let’s learn a little more about imposter syndrome and what you can do to stop doubting yourself and start building the confidence that you deserve to have.
What is imposter syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is when someone does not believe that their skills, knowledge, and hard work are deserved or legitimate. Even with the schooling, degrees, and achievements, they feel inadequate, as if they will be found out as not really being the professional they have worked so hard to become. They feel undeserving of their accomplishments, like they are not as smart or knowledgeable as people think they are. This often happens to high-achieving adults who struggle to accept their accomplishments.
Do you have imposter syndrome?
Having imposter syndrome can leave people in a tough spot. Have you ever wondered if this has been your problem the whole time? Imposter Syndrome shows up in different ways, often taking the form of self-sabotage, chronic self-doubt, or an overwhelming fear of failure. This can also look like perfectionism, people pleasing, procrastination, and being stuck in a freeze response. Does any of the following sound like you:
You often question yourself while at work, not convinced you have the answers. Even though you have studied and trained for this, you find yourself double or even triple checking just to make sure.
You worry about what others are thinking about you and your performance at work. “Do they think you are doing a good job,” “do they wish I was better.” “They must think I am so stupid for that stumble I made this morning” may be all things you say to yourself.
Even though you did the schooling, worked hard for promotions, you just feel like you “Got lucky”. Maybe you even feel like, if you can do it then anyone really could so it can’t mean that much or be that big of a deal.
You hold yourself to really reaaaallllllly high standards. Like impossible to meet high standards. Yet you don’t expect that of anyone else.
You over work yourself to make up for feeling like a fraud. You feel like if you just work a little harder, and a little longer, it will make up for the things you lack.
are feeling burnt out. Trying to be the best, and perfect, and not being found out all the time is really taking a toll on you mentally. You may feel a little drained.
Having a hard time accepting compliments. Maybe you even point out something you could have done better, that proves this compliment is really not that worthy.
Strategies for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome:
Be aware: When you understand that what you are going through is imposter syndrome, then you can take the steps you need to in order to get rid of it. As with most things, the first step in making a change is being aware of the problem.
Normalize it: Understand that these feelings are common and experienced by many successful people. You are not alone in this. It can take up to 7 years on average to feel fully confident in a professional role. When you can recognize that it can be normal to feel this way, it allows you to be a little kinder to yourself.
Celebrate your wins: Reflect on your successes and acknowledge the effort you put into achieving your goals. Try to fight the urge to downplay your accomplishments and find even a small way to show up for yourself.
Fake it till you make it: Get into the habit of questioning any negative thoughts and saying something at least neutral instead. Even if you don’t believe yourself at first. It takes practice to reprogram your thoughts to not go right to imposter thoughts. Try some positive affirmations. Something that makes you feel confident in yourself.
Talk it out: Share your feelings with trusted friends, family, or a mentor. You might just find that they feel some of these things too. You may also get some good feedback and support to help show you just how awesome you really are. Seeing yourself from others perspective can help show you all the strengths others see in you.
Imposter Syndrome can be a pain in the butt, but with self-awareness, support, and proactive strategies, you can overcome the doubt and thrive in your personal and professional life. Still feeling stuck and want to explore your imposter syndrome further? Get in touch with me today, and let's work through this together.
Jaclyn H Burwell, LCSW offers virtual therapy in the states of Pennsylvania and North Carolina.
