How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome (8 Ways)
Have you ever had a voice in your head that gives you a little doubt when doing something? While it can be hard to silence it at times. Most people have or will encounter imposter syndrome at some point in their life. Whether at work, performing, competing, or anything else, imposter syndrome can sneak up on anyone.
What Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is a common issue faced by many individuals, especially those in high-pressure careers or those transitioning into a new role. It is the feeling of self-doubt and inadequacy despite evidence to the contrary, leading to the belief that one's successes are due to luck rather than personal ability. This can be a major roadblock to success and personal fulfillment, even if the individual is an expert in their field.
People who suffer from imposter syndrome typically feel as if they are frauds or aren’t an expert in the topic that they are representing.
How Common Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is a really common occurrence for people. According to researchers at the National Library of Medicine, up to 82% of people have suffered from imposter syndrome at one point or another. While it is a common occurrence, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t pleasant. Sometimes it can be demoralizing and really affect a person’s confidence and career growth at times.
How to Tell If You Have Imposter Syndrome
There are various ways to tell if you have imposter syndrome. While it may not be a great feeling, it can sometimes be elusive and vary throughout the day. However, you can spot a few signs which can help you to overcome imposter syndrome once it’s spotted.
You don’t like to accept praise for completed projects or ideas.
The fear of failure can haunt you and paralyze you.
You tend to feel as if you “get lucky” when you are more than prepared and work hard.
You have a sense that you are not enough.
You don’t like to take on more responsibility at work because you are afraid of failure or reprimand.
People have told you that you don’t appear as confident as you used to be.
You constantly apologize for things even if you don’t need to.
You hold yourself to high standards and don’t leave room for failure.
You don’t want to appear confident around others because you are afraid that they may judge you or find you intolerable.
Additionally, a more subtle thing may include changes in your language whether it’s body or verbal language.
How Imposter Syndrome Impacts a Person
Imposter syndrome isn’t just feeling like a fraud though, it can materialize in other ways depending on how long it festers. It can take form mentally, physically, and emotionally. Below are a few other impacts of imposter syndrome.
Anxiety or fear of failure
Depression
Lower job satisfaction
Burnout
Impaired job performance
8 Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
While imposter syndrome may be normal, there are some ways to help you overcome it. Here are some effective strategies for getting over imposter syndrome:
1. Understand Why You Feel Imposter Syndrome
Acknowledge and understand your imposter feelings The first step towards overcoming imposter syndrome is to acknowledge and understand your feelings of self-doubt. This can be achieved by speaking with a trusted friend, therapist or mentor who can help you work through these emotions and provide you with a supportive environment to help you tackle imposter syndrome head-on.
2. Work on Your Self Talk and Use It As Your Super Power
Self talk is hard to work on, but slowly over time, you may find that by focusing on ways to help fix your self talk, imposter syndrome and doubt will slowly subside as well. Negative self-talk is a common symptom of imposter syndrome and can be damaging to your self-esteem. To overcome this, try reframing negative self-talk into positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments, and focus on your progress rather than your perceived shortcomings. A simple saying to remind yourself that you are enough and saying things like “I am powerful” can take you a long way.
3. Learn to Embrace Failures and Let Go of the Inner Perfectionist
Embracing failure can definitely be tough for people, but failing is a great teaching opportunity and provides valuable insights in itself. Imposter syndrome can make you afraid to fail, but it's important to understand that failure is a natural part of the learning and growth process. Embracing failure can help you develop resilience and a growth mindset, which are essential for overcoming imposter syndrome.
4. Set Goals for Yourself That Are Achievable
Setting achievable goals can help to boost your confidence and provide you with a sense of accomplishment. Focus on setting small, attainable goals that will help you progress towards your overall goals, and celebrate your progress along the way. This can also lead to new findings that may help you become even more of an expert than you already are. Try setting easy and medium goals to help you gain confidence in what you are doing.
5. Practice Self Care
Taking care of yourself is important for maintaining good mental and physical health, which can help to overcome imposter syndrome. Engage in activities that you enjoy, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with friends and family. The mind and body can both be helpful tools in confidence and can help guide you to learning how to deal or remove the stresses in your life. You are your number one priority and deserve to practice self care.
6. Talk to Others About How You Feel
Seek support by reaching out to others for support can help you tackle imposter syndrome head-on. Consider joining a support group or working with a therapist who specializes in imposter syndrome. They can provide you with the tools and strategies you need to overcome self-doubt and boost your confidence. No one has to go through any struggle alone.
7. Celebrate Your Successes and Failures
While it may seem cliche, don’t forget that there are two sides to the coin. Failure and success should both be celebrated in their own way. By celebrating your success, you allow the opportunity to engage in happiness and achievement. By celebrating your failures, you start to realize that you may not have achieved the goal you wanted, but perhaps you were able to learn something valuable that you can use next time.
8. Use the Imposter Syndrome as Your Secret Weapon
Imposter syndrome can be tough to quell but it’s not impossible. While there is a chance for the imposter syndrome to be an obstacle, you can also use it as a secret trick up your sleeve by making it a sort of challenge that you can conquer.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in a Nutshell
Imposter syndrome is a common issue many individuals face, but it is possible to overcome if not silence to a reasonable degree. Just remember that you are not alone in how you feel and to always be sure to reach out to someone if you ever come across imposter syndrome in your industry. Chances are that your colleagues, friends, or even family are or have suffered from the same or similar thing.