Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome, by definition, is the persistent inability to believe that one's success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved due to one's efforts or skills. 

I’ve dealt with imposter syndrome for as long as I can remember, and deal with it most when it comes to anything author-related. Even with two well-written published books, I sometimes question my capabilities. I’m sure we all do, and it’s okay, but it doesn’t have to always be this way. 

Below are three tips that will be useful for your imposter syndrome, whether related to your personal or professional life. 

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3 Ways To Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Create A Brag Book

A brag book includes any positive remarks or feedback someone has shared with you regarding you as a person or your work. A brag book is essential to combatting imposter syndrome because there will come times in your life when you’ll have to be reminded and reassured of the great things you’ve accomplished in the past and will continue to accomplish. 

For me personally, my brag book feels like when you’re in the gym and a really great upbeat song comes on while you’re on the treadmill, and now it feels fun to run/jog. You’re singing along, you’re feeling yourself, you’re doing the thing. This is how going through your brag book should feel. It serves as a wake up call in those moments of doubt and fear. 

Have no fear your brag book is here!

Develop A Firm Foundation

Sometimes, we need our people to remind us of how lit we are. Having friends and family to remind you of how amazing you are can be just the pick me up you need to clear the road of any negative thoughts that may be causing you to doubt yourself. 

Many will say to not depend on the reassurance of others but it’s nice to have your spirits lifted through words of affirmation from your community. Again, this cheer-up session can be just what you need when imposter syndrome tries to come into your life.

Question Those Negative Beliefs

When I speak with young adults who express feeling imposter syndrome, I tell them to ask themselves who are they being an imposter to? Do you feel like an imposter because it’s a new experience, an award you’re receiving that’s out of your comfort zone? Are you feeling imposter syndrome because you’ve been told since you were a child you weren’t good enough? Dig deep and ask yourself questions to uncover where these feelings of imposter syndrome are coming from. 

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These feelings can stem from an insecurity we have from when we were children, that’s why it’s important to figure out what it is, address it and move forward. That way it does not continue to hold you back. You not shining your light hurts you and those around you; so remember to shine.

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When imposter syndrome comes in ready to attack and having you doubt yourself, remember to use the three tips shared above to combat those feelings. It may not go away overnight but the more you practice moving past those feelings, the less they’ll affect you.