6 ways to help overcome Imposter Syndrome
“I still have a little imposter syndrome… it doesn’t go away, that feeling that you shouldn’t take me that seriously. What do I know? I share that with you because we all have our doubts in our abilities, about our power and what that power is.”
Recently, having spoken to several people about imposter syndrome, it appeared to be unknown concept. So, a blog to educate others was inspired, in order to help clarify what it means, and how it affects so many of us.
Imposter Syndrome is a term used to describe feelings of insecurity or self-doubt, even if there’s no evidence to support the belief. It is a pattern of self-doubt that can lead to anxiety, stress and missed opportunities
In a recent article, Olympic gold and silver medallist triathlete Alex Yee says that he suffered from a ‘mild form of imposter syndrome”. He goes on to say “ for me it took a few tough conversations and a lot of work to realise you are worthy of being there”
Whilst most of us would not find ourselves on an Olympic podium with self-doubt, the concept can be part of all of our lives. Applying for a new job that we are unsure we are good enough for, meeting someone for a first date that you feel might be out of your league. Having dinner will a group of extremely successful business owners when you have just started your own business.
Success is not always about money, status, or power. I have learnt that lesson over the past few years. When you have a more layered definition of success it includes satisfaction, balance, happiness, and less stress. A lower-level job that offers these is a perfectly acceptable path when faced with staying on a fast track that is making you miserable. Many of us in our lives equate our worth to the amount of money we make, and yet we have seen some of the richest most successful in the world, deeply dissatisfied.
Self-doubt can negatively impact careers because people may over produce to prove that they are capable, the same goes for relationships and friendships where we can overcompensate. Self-doubt does not mean something has gone wrong. It means you're growing, it means that you are in the process of overcoming and becoming the person that you truly are meant to be. Self-doubt does not mean turn around and go home. It means you're on the right path.
So, if we recognise self-doubt, in our thoughts, what strategies could we put in place to help us.
Say yes to opportunities
It is easy to say ‘no’ to an opportunity because we think it will be too difficult or uncomfortable, or we might be afraid to make a mistake. A few years ago I was asked to lecture to 120 post-graduate student teachers at Manchester Metropolitan University. Ready to turn down the opportunity out of fear, a colleague gave me this advice “when I get asked to do things I don’t think I can do, I say yes, then panic, once the panic subsides I find a way how to do it”
2. Embrace your strengths
We all have certain strengths that make us different and unique. It is important that we can embrace those strengths and do not dim our light or become self-deprecating, to make others feel better. Those strengths may have taken many years to develop, acknowledge your courage and commitment to yourself.
3. Talk about your feelings
One of the most beautiful ways to connect as human beings is to talk about how we feel. Potentially sharing some vulnerable thoughts. Some of the strongest connections that I have made in my life with acquaintances, friends and clients is having the ability to talk about challenging situations and emotive topics.
4. Keep learning
If you work on improving your expertise in your industry, you will feel more worthy of your status. Keep researching your industry’s latest trends, statistics, and leaders if you want to gain enough confidence to deal with imposter syndrome.
5. Step out of your comfort zone
Nothing great was achieved by doing the same thing over and over. Push yourself to do things that make you uncomfortable, that you could potentially fail at. Once you come to the realisation that failure is part of the process. Your brain wants to keep you safe and therefore will challenge any thoughts you might have that require change.
6. Visualise success
This is an important part of the process, not just future thinking and goal setting but looking back on your accomplishments so far. Appreciating how some of your achievements felt impossible only a few years ago. Less comparison of others and more celebrating your OWN success. Helping reaffirm your accomplishments is good for the soul. Sharing your own success can also been an inspiration for others that thought it was not possible.
If you have a feeling that you could be dealing with Imposter Syndrome and self- doubt, please get in touch. It takes time and effort to change some old patterned thinking, but it will be worth it, to help you move forward positively in your life.
With love and gratitude,
Siân
