Do you ever have the feeling that you’re not qualified for the job you want to go after, despite your numerous qualifications and years of expertise?
Or that feeling that you don’t deserve to be where you are, and that you only got there because of luck or happenstance?
If so, you might have a classic case of what’s known as imposter syndrome.
And woman, you are not alone.
Impostor syndrome can affect 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?
While imposter syndrome affects individuals of all genders, including greats like Albert Einstein, 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.
The key is to explore the thoughts and beliefs behind these feelings, instead of letting them hold us back. By doing so, we can transform self-doubt into self-awareness, build unshakable confidence, and continue growing into the strong, fierce women we are truly meant to be.
Here are some tips on how to fight imposter syndrome:
Examine your thoughts and beliefs – Notice when you start experiencing imposter syndrome and pay attention to the inner voice that tells you you’re not deserving or good enough. Ask yourself whether these beliefs are truly accurate or simply fears holding you back. Consider where these thoughts may have originated in your life. Understanding the root of your self-doubt is a powerful step toward overcoming it.
Focus on the value you bring – Perfection is impossible, and trying to achieve it can hold you back. Take time to appreciate the great work you do and be proud of giving your best, rather than striving 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 feel self-doubt.
Stop comparing yourself – Your abilities and experiences are unique. Comparing yourself to others can make you feel discouraged. Instead, focus on and celebrate what makes you one-of-a-kind.
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.
Be Yourself – Another way to combat impostor syndrome is not to care so much about what other people think of you and simply be yourself.