Dealing With Imposter Syndrome

Ever get to a point where you begin to experience thoughts and feelings that you are not capable of what you are doing? Something that you have been doing for a period of time/something that you have studied or have been trained for? The feeling of not being able to do what you are skilled at. Feelings of being a fraud despite how those around you praise or give you credits.

This feeling is known as ‘imposter syndrome’ and yes, just as the name implies, you are feeling like an imposter. You have had thoughts that your success, results aren’t yours, your mind keeps on playing tricks with you and telling you that you are not good enough.

Making statements like “I do not belong here”, “my opinion doesn't matter”, “I'm not the best for this” or “I don't deserve this”. All of these come from an internalized fear. The story of imposter syndrome began when scientists began to study the lives of highly successful women. However, imposter syndrome can be found in men also.

Truth is, most of the time what people see are the results and we tend to be more worried about the results, what people will see or say, and ignoring the efforts we have put into it, no matter how little it may seem to us. That’s how anxiety and worry keep on building up and then, we experience imposter syndrome. After a while or in that, burnouts become inevitable.

This fear creeps on us majorly when we are expecting major results, say you applied for a scholarship, awaiting examination scores, or got placed on a big project. It can also happen after experiencing setbacks.
You can identify when imposter syndrome is creeping up on you by, first of all, observing your thoughts when you have a project at hand. Watch out for anxiety and procrastination. Watch your thoughts even after getting results and check if you either feel like you didn’t do enough or you don’t deserve to win.

Imposter syndrome can be overcome.
First of all, stop ruminating on past failures and get the ‘what if’ mentality out of your mind. Have an “I can do it” mindset.
Then, learn to celebrate your small wins the same way you celebrate your big wins. That way, you don't discriminate or categorize wins and only celebrate when you feel it is a big win. Celebrate every win.

Also, take time to practice and observe self-care. Learn to filter criticism and avoid negativity. Develop your self-esteem. Watch out for the type of thoughts you have, and people you let into your space. Avoid naysayers.

Get a support system. Find someone to talk to when you are in that space or experiencing imposter syndrome. Someone to encourage you when you experience downtimes. Listen to songs, see movies, read books, avoid sitting home alone, or take a walk. Give room for new scenery. Try Journaling, it’s like creating a support system for yourself. Express your thoughts.

Realize that it is ok to feel that way. We all go through it. Thinking this way would help you get through. Let the process occur, don't bottle your feelings. Cry if you need to, sleep if you want.
Breaks are extremely important. Learn to know when you need breaks and give yourself time. You need it. If you keep running through continuously, you'll break down. 

Preparation can be a form of procrastinating. Are you over-preparing? Pay attention to details but know when to check yourself.

Everyone has what spurs them on. Find yours.

In the end, check your track record and remember that, whatever you do, you are someone’s favorite. Show up for that one person. 

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