Imposter Syndrome

 

Have you ever been in situations where you felt like you didn't belong, even though you were qualified and experienced? 

The term "Imposter Syndrome" was coined in the 1970s to describe these feelings of self-doubt or not being good enough, especially among high-achieving individuals. While it's not an official diagnosis, it's been studied in various fields like science, education, and business. Research from 2020 looked at many studies and found that imposter syndrome is quite common, with rates ranging from 56% to 82% in different groups like graduate students, nurses, and others. Symptoms can include feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed, avoiding challenging tasks, and not believing positive feedback.

 Imposter syndrome happens to lots of people, no matter who they are. But it might be more common for folks in minority groups because of racism and other unfair treatment. If you feel like you don't belong or aren't good enough, you're not alone. And even if you see someone else feeling this way, you can help them feel better. Places like the American Psychological Association and Harvard Business Review have tips and tools to deal with imposter syndrome.

Who is most likely to suffer from imposter syndrome?

While imposter syndrome is common and can occur across any age group, gender, profession, or racial demographic, individuals from minority groups may be more likely to experience it due to racism, social stigmas, and microaggressions. If you experience imposter syndrome, know you are not alone.

Is imposter syndrome a mental illness?

It's estimated that 70% of people will experience at least one episode of imposter syndrome during their lifetime. Despite its ubiquity, little is known about the phenomenon. 

How do you fix imposter syndrome?

Treatment for Impostor Syndrome

1.  Individual Psychotherapy. Talk therapy can help manage the roots of impostor syndrome.

2.  Group Therapy.

3.  Cognitive Processing Therapy.

4.  Open Up.

5.  Accept Positive Feedback.

6.  Keep a Log.

7.  Embrace Positive Self-Talk.

8.  Break Out of Your Comfort Zone.

How do I tell if I have imposter syndrome?

Characteristics of imposter syndrome:

1.  Self-doubt.

2.  Undervaluing contributions.

3.  Attributing success to external factors.

4.  Sabotaging self-success.

5.  Setting unrealistic expectations.

6.  Continuous fear of not living up to expectations.

7.  Burnout.

Tips to Overcome It

1.     Cheer Yourself On: Remember and celebrate the good things you've done.

2.     Fight Bad Thoughts: When you doubt yourself, remind yourself of your strengths.

3.     Talk it Out: Don't be afraid to share your feelings with someone you trust.

4.     Learn from Mistakes: It's okay to mess up; just use it as a chance to get better.

5.     Keep Growing: Always look for ways to learn and improve.

Conclusion

Overcoming imposter syndrome is a journey that requires self-awareness, resilience, and support from others. By recognizing the signs of imposter syndrome, understanding its impact, and implementing practical tips for overcoming it, we can gradually build confidence in our abilities and thrive in both personal and professional pursuits. Remember, you are capable, deserving, and worthy of success. Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back from realizing your full potential.

  

https://dceg.cancer.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/inclusivity-minute/2023/imposter-syndrome

By: Taras Ivanuts (Career Peer)