How to Fight Imposter Syndrome
“You’re a fraud. You know it, I know it, and soon everyone else will know it.”
Does this sound familiar? If it does, you may be struggling with imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is a psychological experience that occurs when internal feelings of self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud are persistent despite accomplishments achieved. Imposter syndrome is known to be prevalent in women, specifically women of color.
Believe it or not, the co-founders of TeleTherapy Room also experience imposter syndrome. We are not the exception to the rule! Prior to the launch of our business, we discussed for years where to start. The “where” never mattered because our mindset was stuck in the belief “we can't do this,” even though we both held highly recognized leadership positions in our field for years. We faced a great deal of self-doubt. Our goal was to flourish in our practice, but we feared others seeing us as frauds and incompetent. We get it!
In addition to imposter syndrome occurring in your career, it can show up in your daily life. Perhaps you doubt your ability as a mother, wife/partner, or friend. Imposter syndrome can be prevalent anywhere you look. Researchers believe imposter syndrome is related to our unique childhood experiences which may include how we were parented and the messages we received from adults.
Do you…
…diminish your level of skills, even in areas you are genuinely more skillful?
…not believe others when they provide praise and think they are just being gracious?
…tell yourself your partner only loves you because they do not know the real you?
Imposter syndrome can create a wide range of negative feelings and thoughts such as the following:
Constant feeling of anxiety of being found out of the real you.
Feeling incompetent in roles and or tasks you are engaging in.
Believe you do not deserve recognition for your hard work and accomplishments, because anyone could do it.
Often experience feelings of not being good or smart enough.
Constant need to be or want to be ‘perfect.’
Trapped in our own negative thoughts, oftentimes struggling with self doubt.
Minimize your skills and abilities.
Tend to set very challengeable goals and being tough on yourself when you not reach them.
How to challenge Imposter Syndrome
We can stop comparing ourselves to others and rather focus on our own achievements. Revisiting previous achievements, awards, and moments of recognition is a great reminder of your achievements.
We can change our mindset about our skills, abilities, and create realistic goals that are achievable.
Share your feelings with loved ones. When talking to them, it allows them to provide us with evidence of our abilities and successes.
Engage in techniques for stress reduction, such as meditation and mindfulness.
Question if your thoughts are rational – are you a fraud based on everything you know?
Limit use of social media to help fight feelings of inferiority.
Create a mantra to say to self when feeling overwhelmed, such as “I believe in myself and trust my process.”
If this is something you want to explore, therapy may be a great option for you. We can help! Contact us at 888-725-8085
