Imposter’s Syndrome: what it is and how to overcome it

Can I do this? I’m not sure I’m qualified to do this.”

“How did I manager to get in this position? I don’t deserve to be here.”

“They’re going to find out that I don’t know what I’m talking about soon.”

Have you ever found yourself thinking these types of thoughts? If so, hello and welcome to Imposters Syndrome Anonymous. Grab your name tag off the table and find a seat.

What is Imposter’s Syndrome?

Imposter’s Syndrome is a form of self-doubt. It leads us to believe that we haven’t earned the spot we’ve been placed in. It causes us to question who we are and what we can do.

At one point or another, we will all come to a point of being new at something. We will take on roles that we’ve never been in before and we might begin to wonder if we’re truly prepared for it. That’s when Imposter Syndrome has the opportune time to set in. So how do we fight it?

How to combat it

1. Stop the comparison games

2. Embrace not being the most knowledgeable in the room

3. Recognize and celebrate your unique strengths

Comparison is not only the thief of joy, but also the thief of confidence. Focusing too much on what others can do might lead you to doubt what YOU can do. Looking at others around you with more experience can make you feel like you don’t know enough. Instead, learn to appreciate what others bring to the table that you can learn from. Being the least knowledgable in the room just means there’s plenty of room for growth & helpful resources for you to pull from already present.

At the same time, don’t forget what you bring to the table. You have a unique point of view that someone held as worthy enough to bring value into the room, so trust in that. You possess your own set of strengths and abilities that are needed in some way. Determine how you can add to the conversation and step into that space with confidence about what you do know.

Don’t allow Imposter’s Syndrome to cloud your faith in yourself. Push past your doubts and trust in your gifts. You might be the new kid on the block right now, but you have the capabilities to learn your way around the neighborhood.

Have you ever dealt with Imposter’s Syndrome? How did you get past it?

Share your experience below in hope that it might help the next person!