Let’s talk about imposter syndrome. You know that little nagging voice in your head that makes you question your worth and abilities? Yeah, that's the one! Let's shed some light on this frustrating phenomenon and explore how to deal with it in our own unique ways.
Understanding the Imposter Syndrome
You've probably heard the term before, but what exactly is imposter syndrome? Well, it's that sneaky feeling of being a fraud despite accomplishing great things. It affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, or career. In fact, some of the most successful people you know may struggle with it.
5 Signs You’re Struggling with Imposter Syndrome:
Persistent Self-Doubt: You may often find yourself feeling like you don’t measure up and doubting your skills or downplaying your achievements.
Fear of Failure: Failure is a normal and expected part of any journey. However, when a fear of failure prevents you from taking risks, especially small, calculated risks, there’s an issue.
Overachieving and Overworking: Sure, hard work is commendable, but when it's driven by the need to prove yourself, that's a red flag.
Comparison and Validation Seeking: Constantly comparing yourself to others and seeking validation from external sources can indicate feelings of inadequacy and lack of internal worth, both risk factors for imposter syndrome.
Difficulty Accepting Success: Ever find it hard to accept compliments or acknowledge your achievements? This difficulty in internalizing success could be a manifestation of imposter syndrome.
If you’re feeling called out and thinking “oh goodie, I have imposter syndrome. Now what am I supposed to do about it?” it’s going to be okay. Because, while imposter syndrome can wreck our self-esteem and while minimizing us in our professional and personal lives, it can be corrected.
Here are some ways to help with imposter syndrome:
Normalize the Feelings: Remember, you're not alone. Imposter syndrome is more common than you might think. Studies show that between approximately 70-80% of people will have feelings of imposter syndrome at some point in their life.
Talk It Out: Don't bottle it up; share your feelings with friends, family, mentors, or a therapist. Shame thrives in darkness, so don’t give it the opportunity.
Celebrate You: Embrace your accomplishments, big or small. You've come a long way, and that deserves a pat on the back. As uncomfortable as it may be at first, it’s helpful in changing your behavioral patterns and mindset.
Get to the Root: Understanding the root cause of imposter syndrome can be liberating. It might be linked to past experiences or the pressure to excel in a high-achieving environment. Knowing where it comes from empowers us to challenge it. I highly recommend a bottom-up therapy approach like EMDR that can pull that root out so you don’t have to feel it again.
Challenge the Negativity: When imposter syndrome says you’re a fraud, a failure, incompetent, etc you’re going to need to lean on the times in which that hasn’t been true. This is where installing disconfirming experiences comes in handy. Two ways you can do this is by socratic questioning with the beliefs each time they come up (a more cognitive approach) or you can reprocess and install a more positive belief utilizing EMDR.
In conclusion, imposter syndrome may be affecting you right now, but it doesn’t have to be here forever. Armed with awareness and these powerful strategies, you can break free from its grasp. Embrace your worth, trust your journey, and let your authentic self shine through.
If you feel like you need a little extra support though, please click here to explore how an EMDR Intensive program can help rewrite these beliefs over the course of a few days.
Remember: You are worthy. You are capable. You are enough.
Best, Jessica
