3 Tips to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
We can often hear about negative self-talk. I've learned another version is the imposter syndrome. It's not only what we say to ourselves. It's also the words we use to describe ourselves.
Do you believe you are capable of accomplishing anything? Do you think you have specific God-given talents?
If you don't believe it's true, I'm here to tell you it's true. The main limitation holding us back is our thoughts.
According to Wikipedia, imposter syndrome definition is a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their skills, talents, or accomplishments and have a persistent internalized fear of being exposed to "fraud".[1] Despite external evidence of their competence, those experiencing this phenomenon remain convinced that they are frauds and do not deserve all they have achieved. Individuals with impostorism incorrectly attribute their success to luck or interpret it due to deceiving others into thinking they are more intelligent than they perceive themselves to be.
Wow! I encourage you to take a moment to take in that definition. There are different levels. You may not be an extreme version. Chances are, at some point, you have felt like it.
I found an excellent imposter syndrome test on IDR Labs website. The questions were intensely introspective. My results show that I'm moderately dealing with an imposter.
Now that we know what it is let's look at how to overcome imposter syndrome. There's a fantastic article by Jessica Bennett with The NY Times called "How to overcome imposter syndrome." She provided some great advice on positive affirmations. I have some stored in my cellphone notepad for easy access.
Valerie YoungYou are not alone with this feeling. I decided to go the more transparent route with my content for the very reason. I’m human and right the same battles.
One of my life mottos is “live authentically.” It’s showing up my best each day and doing my best. The most important part is allowing myself the freedom to live that way.
Book recommendations:
Valerie Young, The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer from the Impostor Syndrome and How to Thrive Despite It
Dr. Lisa Orbé-Austin and one more, Own Your Greatness: Overcome Impostor Syndrome, Beat Self-Doubt, and Succeed in Life
Jennifer L Hunt, Unlocking Your Authentic Self: Overcoming Impostor Syndrome, Enhancing Self-confidence, and Banishing Self-doubt
Conclusion
The first step to moving forward is acknowledging that you matter and deserve happiness. Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to rob you of your dreams. You are destined to achieve greatness. What’s one way you shake off limiting beliefs?