How I learned to overcome imposter syndrome 🫣

Have you ever...

• Had a project due, and procrastinated until the last minute because you felt like your work would not be good enough?

• Finally got your dream job, but on the first day, you started doubting yourself?

If you answered yes to either of these questions, you've experienced imposter syndrome.

Say Hello to Juniper

Juniper is a recent college graduate. She has just landed her dream job, but on her first day, she starts to feel like she made a mistake. She feels as if she's not capable of doing what she has worked so hard for. The doubt starts creeping in.

If you've ever felt this way, know that you're not alone. You can combat imposter syndrome with these tips.

Imposter syndrome is the feeling people get when they've achieved everything they've asked for, but feel as if they're not good enough to be in that position.

Ever heard the phrase, "fake it until you make it"? In this case, the person has made it, but it still feels like they're faking it and will get exposed for it.

Types of Imposter Syndrome

• Perfectionist: Everything has to be done perfectly. If not, it's a failure.

• Superhero: Every task, from sending emails to coordinating meetings, has to be done perfectly. If not, it's all a failure.

• Expert: If there is a lack of knowledge, that is a failure.

• Natural genius: If goals aren't achieved quickly, it's a sign of failure.

• Soloist: Asking for help is a sign of failure.

When I started my first professional job as a teacher, I felt like I didn't belong. I didn't know the subject I was teaching, and I struggled to feel like I could do it. I experienced the expert-type imposter syndrome. With the help of the teachers in my department and by teaching myself, I overcame the imposter feelings.

Why Does It Happen?

Imposter syndrome can show up for many different reasons:

• A person is part of a minority group and feels they have to work harder than others.

• It can be triggered by major life transitions such as starting college, starting a new job, or becoming a parent.

Remember Juniper?

After getting through the first couple of weeks of her new job, she still couldn't shake the feeling that she would get exposed as a fraud. She wanted this feeling to go away.

Juniper took some steps to help her not feel like an imposter — and you can take these steps, too!

Step 1: Remind yourself that feelings are not facts.

Create a two-column list with one side feelings and the other side facts.

• Feeling: "I feel like I haven't done enough to be successful."

• Fact: "You've graduated with your bachelor's degree."

Step 2: Positive over negative

When you have a negative thought, think of a positive one.

• Negative: "I don't deserve to be in the same room as my coworkers."

• Positive: " I worked hard and deserve to be here."

Step 3: Celebrate successes and accomplishments.

Make a list of all your accomplishments and wins. Reward yourself for them.

For example, when Juniper accomplishes a tough task, she treats herself with flowers.

Step 4: Take a deep breath.

When imposter feelings start creeping in, take a step back and breathe.

Check out this Byte on how to take deep breaths.

After working for a few weeks at her new job, Juniper adjusts well. Her manager praises her for being a valuable member of the team. When she feels she isn't worthy of her role, she remembers to take the steps needed to overcome imposter feelings.

If you feel like an imposter: