Is there a promotion or position you have always wanted but held back from pursuing it because you didn’t feel ‘good enough’? Or do you always feel that you have managed to fool people regarding your competency and going for that role would expose you?
Or do you wish you could transition into a different career but feel that people would not take you seriously? If so, you are likely suffering from Impostor Syndrome.
What is Impostor Syndrome?
Impostor Syndrome or Phenomenon is when someone is unable to acknowledge their skills and achievements. They think their current job status is down to luck or timing. They are constantly in fear of being ‘found out’ and as a consequence live in a constant state of anxiety and worry.
Get to the root cause of your impostor syndrome
In order to understand why you’re not currently capable of acknowledging your skills and talents, you’ll need to explore where these feelings stem from. These feelings of low self-worth or low self esteem could relate to family expectations, but they could also stem from studying within a competitive environment or working in certain sectors.
Discuss your experience with someone you trust
You’re probably familiar with the notion that voicing worries or fears out loud will lessen the power they hold over you. You can get some professional counselling to help you work through the issues with you. If counselling is not an option , try talking to a trusted friend or family member.
Reframe your thoughts with positive self-talk
Practising positive self talk will help you manage your thoughts when you are going through a period of self doubt brought on by impostor syndrome. Try monitoring your thoughts and make conscious efforts to reframe those thoughts to more positive ones that will actually help move you forward. Those feelings of self doubt will not help to get you to your goal.
Remember, feeling like an impostor does not make you any less intelligent, talented or capable than anyone else, the difference is in how you react to situations. While a new situation might currently make you worry about the fact you don’t know what you’re doing, try reframing these thoughts to focus on how much you might learn from this new experience.
Learn to believe in your self-worth
Work in improving your self confidence. Try counselling , talking to a trusted friend/family member or visualisation. It could also learn to ‘act’ with confidence. Even when you’re feeling insecure, doing this will gradually help you build real confidence internally.
