A great many of us have doubted our abilities at some point in our careers. We sometimes feel like we’re just pretending to be responsible adults with big jobs, as well as homeownership and childcare responsibilities – while everyone else seems to have it all under control.
Despite the overwhelming evidence that our lives, careers and relationships have been successful thus far, many of us believe we lack the necessary competence or intelligence. This is called “imposter syndrome”.
When it comes to self-doubt, negative self-talk and missing out on chances, it’s not a disease or physical condition but rather a way of thinking.
You may be afraid of being discovered by your coworkers, management team or board, or you may have the impression that you’re a con artist.
You think your coworkers have it all together, but you’re not so sure yourself.
Even though everyone thinks you’re doing a terrific job, you can’t take compliments because you’re certain your work isn’t good enough.
In your mind, your work or profession is the only way to measure your worth and identity.
Individuals can end up folding when under pressure as they are unsure of how to handle those feelings of being an imposter, rather than trying to find possible solutions.
It may harm careers by causing procrastination by delaying tasks for fear of not finishing them to the required standards.
Families may suffer from impostor syndrome if one member chooses job advancement over quality time with their loved ones and children.
To overcome impostor syndrome is to recognise your own potential and take control of your success. Here are some ways you can do that:
Feelings and facts don’t mix
You’ll probably experience impostor syndrome in your life. Be ready for those sensations, watch them, be attentive and ready with a reaction. Don’t just believe something because you believe it. You are more knowledgeable and capable of learning than you think.
Keep a record of your accomplishments
Having a tangible reminder of your accomplishments can be comforting. Notify your boss when you receive praise for work on a project. If you’re having a bad day, keep a child’s card praising your parenting skills on the fridge.
Stop making comparisons
Instead of comparing your accomplishments to those of others, focus on evaluating your own. Comparing your life to a meticulously manicured influencer’s social media display, for example, is a certain way to feel inadequate.
Open up to others
Imposter syndrome is common, but it may also be unreasonable, as you’ll learn through a candid conversation with someone who knows you well and believes in you.