We got familiar with the Imposter in our last post. Here’s a quick recap.
Imposter Syndrome affects up to 70% of adults and is common among women, minorities and those starting new endeavors. It’s defined by strong feelings of self-doubt and fraudulence that your achievements or opportunities were an accident and unearned.
In most cases, the Imposter Syndrome is internally sparked. If we don’t fully acknowledge and internalize our achievements and continually set super-high standards for ourselves, we’re creating a very inviting setting for the Imposter to move in and get comfortable--at our expense!
Awareness is a good, first step. But what else can you do?
Five Strategies for Evicting Your Imposter
Strategy 1: Support & Nurture
Share how you’re feeling with someone you trust. Those outside your office or professional sphere may be better positioned to respond in a way that counters your internal self-doubt. Nurture and recharge yourself with elevating or creative activities. When we’re relaxed and well-rested, insights and new perspectives can emerge. Spend time in nature and with people who love and appreciate you.
Strategy 2: Context
Consider the context. What’s going on when the Imposter drops in? Are you in meetings with more experienced and seasoned colleagues? Are you navigating a new job, field, or profession? Give yourself credit for shifting in a new direction and starting a new endeavor--that takes courage! Recognize most people feel insecure and when beginning something new.
Strategy 3: Curb the Urge
Curb your urge to compare. All experts were junior professionals at one time. And news flash! Even experts don’t know everything. Resist the comparison and instead, change your focus. Write down 3 talents you’re proud of. Take a mini-break and remember something sweet from your last vacation. Think of two traits or experiences that set you apart. Practice avoiding the comparison trap.
Strategy 4: Savor
While it may be tempting to move from one accomplishment or major endeavor to the next, stop yourself and focus. Take time to savor and really acknowledge what you’ve achieved and the effort it took to complete it. Plan a special dinner with friends or family, invite colleagues or collaborators to lunch and celebrate one another, schedule a call with a mentor or supporter and share the news. Take time to note and celebrate your accomplishments—you’ve earned it!
Strategy 5: Visualize & Rewire
Athletes, self-helpers and the successful swear by it. During a quiet time of the day, give yourself 5-10 minutes to imagine what your most exciting, delectable and toe-curling success will feel like—Bestselling author? Famous artist? Award-winning leader? What do you see? Who else is there? Are they applauding, beaming, congratulating you? Immerse yourself in the moment.
Practice self-love by forgiving yourself for being new at something. Better yet, affirm that you’re doing a fantastic job.
Come up with a personal mantra to repeat every time you get up from your desk or grab coffee: “I am accomplished”, “I am amazing and smart”, “I belong here” or “I am brilliant and kick-ass fabulous!” This rewires your subconscious with positive messaging. Support yourself as you do your best friend. Double your effort if you’re navigating a discriminatory setting.
Most of all, be kind to yourself. Recognize that the Imposter often arrives when we’re risking and launching into something new. Really, it’s a sign of our courage and bravery. And there’s nothing more real and authentic than that!
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