Banish imposter syndrome

Have you ever experienced imposter syndrome? So many of us have felt like imposters in different areas of life—like starting a new job, receiving a raise or promotion, or going back to school—so you’re not alone in feeling like you don’t have the necessary tools or skills to perform well, or even survive. We’ll say it again: You’re not alone.

Let’s learn more and examine a few ways you can learn to quiet your self doubt and move forward with confidence as you apply for school or start a new job.

The toll it takes

This well-known state of existence, officially called imposter phenomenon by psychologists, is a common human experience that can take a serious toll on our mental health.

Up to 82% of people face inner feelings of imposter phenomenon

This condition can leave us feeling isolated or alone because we feel everyone else knows more than we do. We have trouble owning our accomplishments because we chalk them up to luck rather than capability. And when we don’t recognize our accomplishments, it can affect our motivation. Combine these feelings with negative experiences at school or work, and our self esteem can take a nosedive. Anxiety and depression often accompany imposter syndrome, and when left unchecked, can ultimately lead to poor or declining performance.

When it occurs, you can overcome self doubt and reclaim your self esteem. Let’s dive deeper into that.

Acknowledge your wins

One way to tamp down that self doubt is to put real effort into recognizing your strengths and accomplishments. Remind yourself of what you’re good at and celebrate your progress—you could even write down your skills and wins and revisit the list from time to time as a reminder and to ward off feelings of insecurity.

TIP

Keep a “record of praise” file where you keep notes of praise and accomplishments from friends, family, colleagues, classmates, and professors.

Talk it out

Another way to deal with imposter syndrome is to talk about your feelings with someone you trust. Connecting with someone who values you can give you a more accurate picture of your strengths and abilities and venting your struggles and doubts can also help you feel less isolated. 

Good is good enough!

Perfectionists and higher achievers often struggle with imposter syndrome in a different way. Those used to high achievement tend to take criticism personally rather than constructively and immediately equate setbacks with failure—instead of opportunities for learning.

This requires an attitude shift. Focusing on perfectionism leads to burnout. Instead, try to recognize that not everything can be done flawlessly. Then acknowledge your hard work, reward your progress, and learn from it. Your worth as a person does not stem from performance. 

Go with a growth mindset

Reframing your thoughts is incredibly challenging, but crucial for avoiding imposter paralysis and moving forward.

Internally, your doubt might say: I can’t do this. I’m fooling everyone for now, but it won’t last long. Adopting a growth mindset, however, might turn that negative thought into something like: This is tough, but I’m taking the time and effort to learn and build the skills that I need. 

Tip

It’s ok to feel and experience lower confidence in new or uncertain situations. Just remember to focus on learning and know that growth happens in times of challenge, not comfort.

We’re all works in progress. The goal is progress, not perfection.

Comparison: The thief of joy

It can be hard to not compare yourself to others. You may see achievements, shout outs, accolades, and brags (humble or otherwise) and think: I must be doing something wrong. I don’t have what it takes.

In those times, focus on yourself. Your strengths. Your skills. Your abilities. You’re a human being, therefore worthy, and you bring something to the table. In the end, success means something different for everybody, so focus on your goals instead of falling into the comparison trap.

The Golden Rule, but reversed

We’ve heard the saying often: Treat others as you wish to be treated. However, it also works the other way: Treat yourself as you would treat someone you love and respect.

Cheer yourself on, like you would a loved one. Reassure yourself, like you would a friend. Support yourself, encourage yourself, love yourself. Keep reminding yourself that humans aren’t perfect and you have worth—give yourself some grace!

Change self doubt into motivation

Doubt and feelings that come from imposter syndrome are tricky. It takes work, but recognizing your feelings, acknowledging your strengths, and focusing on your growth will serve you well as you move forward—whether you decide to go back to school, take on a new job, pursue a new career, or start anything new.