S2 E3 | Imposter Syndrome

Synopsis: In this episode, we are talking about imposter syndrome.

In this episode we discuss:

What is imposter syndrome?

It is a belief that you’re an inadequate and incompetent failure, despite evidence that indicates you’re skilled and quite successful. (fast company.com)

- Impostor feelings are generally accompanied by anxiety and, often, depression (APA)

We all deserve to be here

Why do we have this feeling after success? “Sometimes prior to success”

Where did it come from?

We often use or hear “I don't care about what people think” but on the contrary we do.

Imposter Syndrome Categories

Sources: fastcompany.com; Valerie Young, Pauline Rose Clance, PhD, and Suzanne Imes, PhD, Y

The Perfectionist

set excessively high goals for themselves, when fail to reach a goal, experience major self-doubt and worry about measuring up

Common signs: Micromanagers, difficulty delegating task to others, work must be 100% perfect, 100% of the time

The Superwoman/man

push themselves to work harder and harder to measure up. cover-up for their insecurities

harm not only their own mental health, but also their relationships with others.

Common signs: Down time is stressful, wasteful, and uncomfortable. Hobbies fall to the wayside. Even with numerous degrees and visible achievements you still feel inadequate

The Natural Genius

if they have to work hard at something, they assume they must be bad at it. set their internal bar impossibly high, judge and base their success on getting things right the first time

Common signs: Do you often avoid challenges because it’s so uncomfortable to try something you’re not great at? Were you the type to always achieve straight A’s or gold stars? Always considered the “smart one” in your family or peer group?

The Rugged Individualist

Feels asking for help reveals their vulnerability, this feeling like an imposter

Common signs: Strongly feel that you need to accomplish things on your own? Feel you dont need anyones help? Do you frame requests in terms of the requirements of the project, rather than your needs as a person?

The Expert

deeply fear being exposed as inexperienced or unknowledgeable

seeking out trainings or certifications because you think you need to improve your skills in order to succeed

been in your role for extensive amount of time but continue to feel like you still don’t know “enough”

What are some practical things we do about it?

Talk to your mentors

Allowing yourself to be vulnerable with someone who has been in your same situation can validate your feelings of insecurity. Alsoe bring light that these are very normal and common feelings and also irrational.

Recognize your expertise or what i like to call it Give power to your expertise

Don't just look to those who are more experienced for help, impart your knowledge and experience to students, who are in the very beginning of their journey

Remember what you do well

write a list of the things you're truly good at, and areas that might need work.

Realize no one is perfect

Appreciate the success of all your hard work, go on a nice vacation, buy yourself that camera you've been watching, live life and enjoy it!!!

Change your thinking

Instead of working long hours cut it down to realistic times, know that you are capable of completing tasks without excessive time spent, it takes time to change how you approach your success

Talk to someone who can help

Psychologists or other therapists can provide tools to help you combat this way of thinking give you tools, make you accountable, and provide the support.

Sources & Related links:

http://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2013/11/fraud.aspx

https://www.fastcompany.com/40421352/the-five-types-of-impostor-syndrome-and-how-to-beat-them

Connect with us:

Facebook :@theemergentexperience

Twitter: @theemergentexperience

Instagram: @theemergentexperience

Join the private FB Group

Email: [email protected]

Monique: www.moniquelscott.com

Satoya: www.satoyafoster.com

www.practicingredemption.com

Quote:

“When you know you're ENOUGH!
When you stop focusing on all things that you're not.
When you stop fussing over perceived flaws.
When you remove all imposed and unbelievable expectations on yourself.
When you start celebrating yourself more.
When you focus on all that you are.
When you start believing that your perceived flaws are just that - perception...”
― Malebo Sephodi