How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Around the world, many people are going through their daily routines while feeling like a fraud. Often, this happens to people who get promoted to a position of management. You might feel as though you are not skilled enough to tell other people how to do their jobs. Or, you may think you are not meeting your employees’ needs. This is almost always not reality, but it is a sign of Imposter Syndrome. If you’re feeling like an imposter, try out these tips to help overcome those insecure feelings.
Look Toward Strengths
The first step toward moving on from Imposter Syndrome is to remind yourself of your strengths. You wouldn’t have been chosen for a leadership position if you weren’t talented. Look back at your time at the company and think about what you have accomplished. Write down what you find and put it in a place that is easily accessible. Bring it out every time you feel incompetent and take a few minutes to really think back to those moments. Continue to add to the list as you accomplish more. As you see the list grow, you can remind yourself that you have done a lot of great things and you are deserving of the position you are in.
Ask For Feedback
None of us is perfect, but the more we are able to learn from our failures, the more we are able to grow into better leaders. As both your employees and your boss to give you open and honest feedback — even when it’s not time for a formal review. Take their advice and really listen to it. By making positive changes, you show that you are committed to the role and to being the best leader you can be. Keep track of your progress to remind yourself of how far you have come.
Don’t Compare Yourself
It’s natural for us to want to compare ourselves to others. However, when dealing with Imposter Syndrome, that’s the last thing you should do. In reality, it doesn’t matter if someone else is doing better, worse, or the same as you. All that matters is how well you are doing and whether you are improving. If you find yourself becoming tempted toward comparisons, reset your mind and remind yourself that what other people do doesn’t affect how well you are doing.
Everyone is the Same
Many people experience Imposter Syndrome. So, when you feel like you don’t deserve to be in a position of power, just remember that you’re not alone in this. If you have a close mentor, ask them if they’ve had similar feelings. Chances are, they have, and they will have helpful advice for how to move on from it.
Imposter Syndrome can feel overwhelming, but it’s not impossible to overcome it. Use these tips to recenter yourself and continue moving forward.
