5 Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Have you ever had that feeling at work, that at any moment, someone is going to tap you on the shoulder and ask you what the hell you’re doing there? I know I have! I’ve felt like an imposter and worked in a state of panic and anxiety, feeling as though I wasn’t good enough and that I didn’t deserve my success.
The highly talented and famous American author and poet Maya Angelou once said:
"I have written eleven books, but each time I think 'uh oh, they are going to find me out now.' I've run a game on everyone and they're going to find me out."
It just goes to show that anyone regardless of their talent and experience, can suffer from what is commonly known as imposter syndrome at one time or another.
Here are some of the tell-tale signs that you might be suffering from imposter syndrome.
You have an overwhelming feeling that you’re a fraud and not good enough for your position.
You fear failure and would rather avoid trying something than fail at it.
You have difficulty accepting praise and you don’t believe you deserve the credit.
You feel the need to be the best and strive for perfectionism.
You’re an over-worker who keeps investing energy and effort into a project, long after others have stopped.
You undersell yourself and your accomplishments in conversations with others.
You attribute your success to external factors such as luck and circumstances.
You consider your peers to be more naturally or technically skilled than you.
You don’t apply for promotions or jobs that you consider a stretch.
You struggle to ask for help and admit your mistakes to others.
Do any of these resonate with you? I know I’ve been able to tick off quite a few of these throughout my career.
If you feel this way, it’s time to take action and do something about it.
5 things you can do right now to gain back your confidence and feel in control.
Change your self-talk: the most important words you will ever say are the words you say to yourself. Focus your thoughts and energy on what you bring to your leadership role and keep positive useful beliefs front of mind.
Stop the comparisons: Comparisons are unnecessary, unhelpful and rarely accurate. Stop idolising people and start humanising them. There is always more than meets the eye. You are unique and have your own magic to share.
Accept the compliment: When someone hands you a compliment, grab it with both hands. Celebrate what others see in you and use these compliments as evidence of your awesomeness.
Let go of perfection : Perfectionism is a real confidence killer. You cannot be everything to everyone. Be yourself and amplify your strengths and acknowledge your weaknesses but don't dwell on them. You are perfectly imperfect.
Find your tribe: Talk to trusted friends, family and colleagues about how you feel. Share honestly and openly to build trust. Create a supportive environment in which you have the space to flourish and grow as a leader.
Please, please, please don’t let feeling like an imposter hold you back from stepping out of your comfort zone and amplifying your influence. Let it go. It’s time for you to get out there, be seen, stand tall and achieve your goals!
Champagne and Sunshine,
Midja x