Imposter syndrome is REAL, and everybody has it. Yes, even you.
It usually pops up when you start putting yourself out there as an authority in your field or when you say you can do something that you haven’t really done enough to feel super confident about it.
What Is Imposter Syndrome ?
Imposter syndrome is the feeling of being a complete fraud in your field. All of your achievements are by luck and not hard work or trial and error. And worse, you feel like you don’t deserve anything you’ve achieved.
"I got lucky."
"I don't belong here."
"I'm a fraud, and it's just a matter of time before everyone finds out."
Sound familiar?
Most of us have experienced feelings of doubt and unworthiness at some point in our lives. But when your accomplishments are a result of your own knowledge, hard work, and preparation and you still feel inadequate ... you're probably suffering from imposter syndrome.
How to Take Down Imposter Syndrome
1. Acknowledge your feelings
In any sort of recovery, acceptance is the first step. That's why if you suspect you're suffering from imposter syndrome, the first and most crucial step is acknowledging your feelings.
Try to figure out why you feel that way. In my opinion, documenting your feelings in a journal is a step in the right direction. Make sure when putting down your feelings that you're as particular and specific as possible about each situation. In most of the cases, when you write down your feelings, chances are high that you'll realize your worries are baseless.
2. Understand your strengths and weaknesses
No human is perfect; we are all bound to err once in a while. By evaluating yourself through a personal SWOT analysis you learn where your strengths and weaknesses lie. And by identifying the times when you are at your best and worst, you will never have to worry whether you are fit for your roles, projects or achievements.
3. Find someone to talk to
One thing that really helped me start to overcome my imposter syndrome was finding someone I could confide in and be vulnerable with. For me, that’s my mom. I don’t care how old I get. When I’m feeling like the world is against me, my mom always knows what to say to talk me off the hypothetical ledge. Find someone you can talk to who cares about you, knows you and always has given you sound advice. It could be a family member or friend. It just needs to be someone you trust and can truly be vulnerable with. By talking through these feelings, you will often realize there are many people out there who can relate to how you feel.
More importantly, people who care about you will always show you how your fears are unfounded. Hearing positive reinforcement from people you respect is a great precursor to boosting self-esteem.
4. Visualize success
Did you know that professional athletes are trained to visualize success even before participating in their respective sporting events? Picturing yourself as a successful individual prior to your exam, presentation or any other undertaking is a great way of mitigating post-performance stress.
Always remember: We are who we think we are. That's why you should always think of yourself as a winner.
5. Avoid perfectionism
Setting realistic goals is a great way of achieving challenging goals. It is also a great way to avoid doubting yourself when the task in hand is successfully done. Always be a person who accepts honest failure as part of life.
Remember, mistakes are not something to be ashamed of. By overcoming perfectionism, you are able to appreciate your success and achievements. More importantly, you will understand how you will improve yourself next time.