Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Unleashing Your Authentic Self (Part 2)

In last week’s post, I broached the topic of imposter syndrome and the importance of conquering it. Imposter syndrome has no respect for anyone no matter what their skill and experience level is, affecting people at the top of their game. Even those considered the ‘greatest of all times’ have moments of debilitating self doubt with many never truly enjoying their successes.

There are chefs that turn in their awards or shut down their restaurants because they get to points where they feel they are no longer good enough to be at the top of their game even when everyone around them is in utter admiration of their work.

In this concluding part, I want to share some tips on how to conquer imposter syndrome.

Acknowledge and Accept

The first step to overcoming Imposter Syndrome is acknowledging its existence. Understand that many high-achieving individuals experience this phenomenon. You’re not alone, and it doesn’t diminish your accomplishments. It is not unique to you and you can bet most people around you have dealt with and continue to deal with it.

Reframe Your Thoughts

Transform negative self-talk into positive affirmations. Instead of saying, “I don’t deserve this success,” try “I’ve worked hard for this, and I am deserving of my achievements.” Your thoughts shape your reality, so make them work for you. Remind yourself of process and the journey that got you to where you are today.

As a project and change manager, I think about past initiatives that I have delivered and the impacts they had whenever I have a new change to deliver. I remember Maya Angelou talking about walking into a room with thoughts and reminders that all her ancestors are with her; that was her way of carrying everything she learnt from them with her to remind her she had loads of knowledge, skill and strength to call on.

Embrace Failure as Growth

Failure and mistake will open the door to imposter syndrome almost as if to validate your negative thoughts and fears that your success is a fluke and you are undeserving. Catch yourself before these thoughts take root.

Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a part of it. Learning to view setbacks as opportunities for growth is one way to combat imposter syndrome. When you stumble, dust yourself off, learn from the experience, and emerge even more resilient.

Share Your Feelings

Talk to trusted friends, family, or colleagues about your feelings of imposter-hood. Even when they can’t directly help you, you’ll likely discover that they have battled similar demons, and their support can be a game-changer.

Speak up and share your struggles so others can help using the benefits from the personal journeys. Realising that people you think have it together don’t is a help.

Celebrate Your Wins

Celebrate your victories, big and small. Keep a success journal, noting down your achievements. Reflect on your journey, and remind yourself of the hard work and dedication that brought you to where you are. At the end of the day, do a mental run through of everything that went well and the things you achieved. Celebrate them and consider how you will build on them in the future.

Seek Mentorship

Connect with mentors who can provide guidance and share their experiences. Knowing that even the most accomplished individuals faced doubts along their journey can be incredibly reassuring. Mentors will help you put your fears into perspective, remind you of your successes and offer tips and benefits of their own learnings to help you.

Continuous Learning and growth mindset

Embrace the concept of lifelong learning. Growth is a perpetual journey. Expand your skills, knowledge, and expertise. A growth mindset helps you to know and accept that you’re never pretending; you’re always evolving.

Practice Self-Compassion

Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you’d extend to a dear friend. Remember, perfection is an illusion. Embrace your imperfections and recognize that they contribute to your unique charm. Learn what you need to know for your new job and give yourself a fighting chance.

In conclusion, Imposter Syndrome will knock on your door, but you always have the power to slam it shut. Stand tall, embrace your authenticity, and remember that you are not alone in this journey. You are not an imposter; you are a masterpiece in the making.

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