Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome: the feeling you're a fraud, that you're going to be found out as the not-so-smart, not-so-talented, not-so-capable person you fear you truly are. I know it well.
Walking down the corridor of the courthouse thinking, “Check this out. All these people think I’m a lawyer,” as if I have them fooled. I am a lawyer! I went to good schools. I’d been practicing ten years when having those thoughts.
Or you probably relate to this one. Sitting in a meeting, thinking, "How did I even get here? I have no idea what I'm talking about." Or giving a presentation, convinced that everyone can see through the facade and just waiting for me to mess up.
But here's the thing: we all have imposter syndrome. Every single one of us. It doesn't matter if you're a CEO or a janitor, a doctor or a stay-at-home mom, a college student or a retiree. We all have moments where we doubt ourselves and our abilities.
So, how do you deal with it?
Remember that imposter syndrome is not a reflection of your actual abilities or worth. Just because you feel like a fraud doesn't mean you are a fraud.
Remind yourself that we all have weaknesses and areas where we struggle. No one is good at everything.
Practice self-compassion. Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a friend who is feeling down. Be kind and understanding with yourself.
And finally, know that imposter syndrome is something that we all have to deal with, but we don't have to let it hold us back. You can choose to push through it and keep going.
So, next time you're feeling like a fraud, just remind yourself: "I might not know everything, but I know enough. And I'm enough."
And then go kick some imposter syndrome butt.
