I get calls and requests about “overcoming imposter syndrome.” But I don’t recommend it! Imposter syndrome is normal and manageable.
Frankly, I’ve heard people talk with complete confidence and authority about topics they know little about. I often think they could use a little imposter syndrome!
The times I’ve felt acute imposter syndrome are when I’ve performed at my very best! My imposter syndrome inspires me to learn more about my subject matter. It also transmits vulnerability, which audiences like.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon. Many high-achieving people experience it. So do perfectionists! So do some favorite actors, singers, writers, and performers!
It’s the feeling that you’re not as competent or capable as others think you are, and that you’ll be exposed as a fake any minute. It’s common and it’s normal.
Why Overcome Something Normal???
So instead of fighting or hiding your imposter syndrome, what if you could embrace it and learn from it? What if you could see it as a gift, not a curse?
Imposter syndrome is not a sign of weakness or incompetence. It’s a sign of growth and potential.
It means you’re pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and trying new things. It means you’re challenging yourself and expanding your horizons.
The Benefits of Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is also a great teacher. It can help you improve your skills, knowledge, and performance. It can make you a more thorough researcher, careful planner, and thoughtful communicator. It can make you more humble, more curious, more open-minded.
So, how can you embrace your imposter syndrome and turn it into a positive force? Here are four tips:
- Acknowledge and respect your feelings. Don’t ignore or suppress them. Instead, name them and accept them as part of your journey. You’re not a fraud. You’re a learner.
- Re-write your resume or LinkedIn profile every quarter. This can remind you of your strengths and achievements. In a resume, you don’t focus on your flaws or gaps. Instead, writing your resume helps you remember what you’ve done well and accomplished.
- Seek feedback and support. Don’t isolate yourself or pretend to know everything. Instead, ask for help and advice from others who can guide you and cheer you on. Find a mentor, coach, or friend who can support and challenge you.
- Take action and experiment. Don’t let fear or doubt stop you from pursuing your dreams. Instead, take small steps and try new things. Learn from your mistakes and failures. See them as opportunities to grow and improve.
Imposter syndrome is not something to be ashamed of or afraid of. It’s something to be grateful for! If you didn’t experience it, you wouldn’t be normal, vulnerable, or likeable! Plus, it inspires you to learn and grow.
Your imposter syndrome shows that you care about what you do and that you want to do it well. It shows that you have high standards and expectations for yourself. It also shows that you have room to grow and evolve!
So, don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. Instead, let it propel you forward.
Do you embrace your imposter syndrome? How do you use it to your advantage? 😊
Laura Bergells teaches public speaking and business communication classes and workshops. Hire Laura!
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