Imposter Syndrome is defined as a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their intellect, skills, or accomplishments, despite often being high achievers objectively. It is commonly experienced when transitioning to new roles, being promoted, or moving organisations.
Have you ever felt like an imposter in your life?
Consider this perspective shift: what if we viewed ‘Imposter Syndrome’ not as feeling like a fraud, but as embodying the role of a student while still in the process of learning? What if we saw ‘Imposter Syndrome’ as an inherent aspect of our journey towards development and expansion?
The truth is, the feeling of being an “imposter” accompanies any significant status shift. When you ascend or transition into a new role, you are, in essence, a beginner; required to learn new skills, routines, and forge new relationships, all while getting acquainted with unfamiliar experiences or demands.
Yet, your previous knowledge and wisdom have not vanished. The challenge arises when panic or overwhelming self-doubt makes you forget to access your prior abilities. The central objective is to harmonise this fresh role with the knowledge, experience, and achievements you’ve amassed thus far.
During the transition period, it’s important to trust that those who believed in your potential. You must be willing to set aside your doubts and believe in your own abilities and potential to progress. To a degree, this entails adopting the mindset of “acting as if” until you fully embody it – not by being disingenuous, but by embracing the duties of your new role and evolving through the process. This involves confronting inevitable obstacles, gradually gaining confidence until you attain the self-perception you aspire to.
Maslow once said, “We fear our highest possibilities. We are generally afraid to become that which we can glimpse in our most perfect moments, under conditions of great courage. We enjoy and even thrill to the godlike possibilities we see in ourselves in such peak moments. And yet we simultaneously shiver with weakness, awe, and fear before these very same possibilities.”
By embracing the discomfort of being ‘new’, exercising patience, and trusting that we have all the resources we need within us, we can transcend Imposter syndrome by acknowledging our role as students on a journey towards mastery.
I had a friend who attended a prestigious British university. During their orientation, they were shown original handwritten manuscripts and journals by authors such as Dickens, Hemingway, and Tolkien in a secluded library section. These documents, often frenetic and chaotic, were stained with liquids, had ink blotches, and many torn pages. This was a powerful reminder to the students: “never compare your work in progress to other people’s finished product.”
How to navigate feelings of Imposter Syndrome in a practical way:
• Shift Your Perspective: During transitional phases, try viewing situations from an outsider’s perspective. Lean on the confidence others have in you; let their faith in your capabilities overshadow your uncertainties. Adopt the mindset: “I am as you see me.”
• The Recognition Reserve: Set aside a physical or digital space for a Recognition Reserve – a compilation of affirmations, achievements, and times you’ve been acknowledged. Jot these down on paper and revisit them when you need a boost. This tangible reminder acts as a strong antidote to imposter syndrome, anchoring you in your true worth and contributions.
• The Triad Reflection: Regularly ponder three individuals: one who reflects your past, one who mirrors your present, and one who epitomises your future aspirations. This reflection aids in recognising your progress, valuing your current contributions, and understanding that even your role models were once navigating their own paths.
• Seek Professional Insight: Engage with a psychologist or coach to help navigate and mitigate feelings of imposter syndrome, equipping you with effective coping strategies.
• Actionable Planning: Create a structured plan with achievable milestones to track your growth and accomplishments. Breaking down your goals into smaller steps can make them more manageable and allows you to celebrate progress along the way, reinforcing your confidence and motivation.
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