Marketing Blog- Working through Imposter Syndrome

Have you ever started a new job or taken on a new leadership role and felt unworthy? You may have begun to second-guess your hard-earned skill set and wondered whether you were qualified enough for the new role or responsibility.  Doubts flood the mind, and you start questioning how you even got there… Am I good enough to be here? 

These thought processes can all be considered signs of “Imposter Syndrome.” This is a common thinking pattern in which a person undervalues their abilities and feels they are not truly qualified or deserving of success. 

Imposter Syndrome overrides a person’s confidence and diminishes their acceptance of their own success. This thinking pattern can also result in one overworking themselves, being overly self-critical, and putting up barriers in creating meaningful connections. 

Imposter syndrome prevents many people from pursuing their dreams and can cause them to accept less than they’re worth. It also creates unnecessary obstacles for those striving to achieve their goals, as people are clouded by self-criticism. 

Here are some things to consider to help clear the fog and see your true potential:

1) Get back to the Source of Imposter Syndrome

When viewing yourself through a critical lens,

• Where do those thoughts and perspectives stem from?

• Are they results of past setbacks or traumas?

• Are they negative narratives spoken from outside sources?

• Are these judgments based on reality or insecurity? 

In my experience, much of my imposter syndrome stems from insecurities about being less experienced in the workforce than some of my colleagues. 

You want to be able to identify the roots of these criticisms, so that you can challenge them. 

2) Challenge the thought patterns

Are these negative thoughts helping you to achieve your goals? Or are they holding you back? 

When these doubtful thoughts become second nature for self-preservation, it may feel more difficult to break the cycle of thinking. However, by taking extra time to challenge these thoughts, you may find that some of them are no longer useful. 

From my example, although I fear that having less experience makes me less qualified, I must remember that the only way to gain experience is to take action and learn from it.

I must challenge the thought that I must fit the mold that I created for myself, and realize that no one starts off knowing everything from the jump. I know the reality is that I wouldn’t have been selected for the position if my supervisor didn’t see all that I bring to the table. 

Challenging these thoughts can help you release them and allow space for new, more helpful ways of thinking. 

3) Reflect on prior successes

After letting go of viewing yourself from that critical perspective, it can be helpful to focus on the successes of past experiences to help reaffirm your capabilities.

Remind yourself of how far you’ve come and make a list of all of your accomplishments. This will help you see the value you bring and remind yourself of your strengths.

For example, I know that I worked hard to earn a degree, have been recognized for my work in previous roles, and have successfully completed certifications applicable to my position. Although this may not be on-the-job experience, I can be reassured that I can meet my goal competently from the proof of my past actions.

4) Reach out 

It can sometimes be difficult to step outside yourself and see yourself beyond your narratives. Talking with someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or therapist, can help you process your feelings and develop strategies for coping with imposter syndrome. 

Sometimes, just talking to someone who understands what you're going through can make a big difference.

Closing thoughts 

Although imposter syndrome may feel isolating, you are not alone. Even the most successful people experience self-doubt from time to time. 

It’s important that we step back and take a moment to look at the full picture of our situation. We must remind ourselves that thoughts are not always facts, and that taking the time to shift our perspective can break down a world of barriers.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice.

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