Do you ever have the feeling that someone is going to “find you out?” That you’ll be exposed for the fraud that you are? Or maybe you don’t deserve to be where you are and you only got there because of luck or happenstance? This is a classic imposter syndrome definition.
And woman, you are not alone.
Impostor syndrome is real and affects even the strongest and most accomplished women, according to a report in The Telegraph. Impostor syndrome was first identified in 1978 as “a phenomenon whereby successful women had high levels of self-doubt.”
The good news is that it’s something we can totally overcome!
Who suffers from imposter syndrome?
The Telegraph reports that women are more likely to undervalue themselves, which can lead to burying themselves in tasks, avoiding extra responsibility, and not seeking out opportunities like pay raises.
Even women like Emma Watson, Kate Winslet, and Maya Angelou have all said they have felt like an imposter at one point. And there is no shame in that. These feelings are just a bump in the road to success and help us become the strong, fierce women we truly are when we overcome them.
Here are some tips on how to fight Imposter Syndrome
Focus on the value you bring – Trying to attain perfection is a fool’s game. Take time to focus on the great work you do and be happy with trying your best instead of trying to be THE best.
Own your success – Celebrate your victories. Keep a list of all the things you’ve accomplished over the last five years and refer to it when you’re feeling down.
Stop comparing yourself – You and your abilities are unique. Comparing yourself to others only sets you up to be let down. Focus on and celebrate your own unique qualities.
Be ambitious – Be ambitious and refuse to be apologetic about it. Go after what you want and have the courage to take on challenges and follow your dreams.
Another way to combat impostor syndrome is not to care so much about what other people think of you and BE YOURSELF!
If you feel the imposter syndrome definition applies to you, you can read more about how to overcome impostor syndrome on Forbes.com here.