IMPOSTOR SYNDROME Episode 2

(How to deal with impostor syndrome)

One of the first steps to overcoming impostor feelings is to acknowledge the thoughts and put them in perspective. “We can help teach people to let go and more critically question those thoughts.

Dr. Ervin says, "I encourage clients to ask  ‘Does that thought help or hinder me?’”

You can also reframe your thoughts. Dr. Young says she reminds people that the only difference between someone who experiences impostor syndrome and someone who does not is how they respond to challenges. “People who don’t feel like impostors are no more intelligent or competent or capable than the rest of us,” Dr. Young says. “It’s very good news, because it means we just have to learn to think like non-impostors.” Learning to value constructive criticism, understanding that you’re actually slowing your team down when you don’t ask for help, or remembering that the more you practice a skill, the better you will get at it can all help.

It can also be helpful to share what you’re feeling with trusted friends or mentors. People who have more experience can reassure you that what you’re feeling is normal, and knowing others have been in your position can make it seem less scary.

Most people experience moments of doubt, and that’s normal. The important part is not to let that doubt control your actions, says Young. “The goal is not to never feel like an impostor. The goal for me is to give people the tools and the insight and information to talk themselves down faster,” she says. “They can still have an impostor moment, but not an impostor life.”

use this like to listen to IMPOSTOR SYNDROME Episode 1