Achieving success rarely comes easily. If you’re lucky enough to reach the dizzy heights smoothly, without bumps, crashes & moments of questioning yourself, you deserve centre stage at your own TED talk!
The majority of us (excuse the mass generalisation) ride the wave of life with all its ups and downs, attempting to avoid the debris and enjoying the sweet calm moments where we can. Yet, sometimes, even in the calm, Imposter Syndrome (IP) can knock you for six.
A review article published in the International Journal of Behavioural Science suggested that up to 70% of us will suffer with IP at some point in our working lives. By no means a new ‘syndrome’, IP was coined by psychologists in the 1970’s as a ‘psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their accomplishments…despite external evidence of their competence, those experiencing this phenomenon remain convinced that they are frauds, and do not deserve all they have achieved."
With colleagues, friends, and a partner, whose resilience I admire, attributing much of their success to 'right place right time' or sheer luck. I remain bemused that IP limits their confidence in owning the hard graft that has lead them to a place that I, amongst others, commend.
There have been numerous articles written about IP, linking to feminism, millennial's, and neuroscience. I wondered whether it's worth a change in approach; shifting the focus from the often negative connotations associated with IP and seeking the positive:
You’re not alone
Chances are most people around the table have at some point have questioned their place. Encouraging open conversations, respecting each other’s views, and difference of opinion, will help to ease feelings of insignificance or doubt.
Neural negativity
Let the negative thoughts pass as quickly as they enter your consciousness. Attempt to re-work your neural pathways to redirect the negativity and reduce cortisol wreaking havoc on your well-being. Revel in your achievements. Replace self-doubt with self-praise, perfection with acceptance, and celebrate your successes no matter how small.
If you question, you care
Perhaps the reason you’re questioning your added value, is because you care; about the subject matter, your reputation, career or the organisation. Use this opportunity to be collaborative, utilise the experience in the room, and be bold in putting your ideas forward.
Own it
You deserve to be right where life has landed you. Own your ideas and be your biggest supporter. When IP creeps in, remind yourself of the hard work, sacrifice and determination that has lead you to this point. Shake it off and keep your focus forward.
We should all take some solace that if the likes of Einstein had moments of seeing himself as an involuntary swindler, award winning poet Maya Angelou thought she had been running game on everyone, and the inspirational Michelle Obama felt she didn’t belong. Then the likes of you & I can surely work through IP and not let comparison, or high cortisol levels, be the thief of joy.
