“Hey, guess what? You’re a fraud, and everyone’s about to find out.”
It is that feeling when you’re convinced that your successes are just happy accidents and any minute now, someone’s going to burst through the door with a “Freeze! Hands where i can see it”!
You’re under arrest, anything you do or say would be used against you in the court of law”. Ease up, you deserve your success and let your imagination sleep.
Get ready to be bailed out! Keep reading.
Step 1: Realize You’re Not Alone
The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is understanding that it’s as common as noodles(the food). You see it in every stall, shops and malls in the country. Famous people have it, your boss has it, I have it.
Even Albert Einstein reportedly said, “The exaggerated esteem in which my life work is held makes me very ill at ease.” So, next time you feel like a fraud, just remember: you’re in good company.
If you’re actually a fraud, then my prayers are with you.
Step 2: Embrace the Absurdity
Think about it. You’re convinced that everyone around you has it all figured out while you’re just winging it. Let’s be real for a second: we’re all the same! Still trying to navigate and find our paths in this evolving world.
Life doesn’t come with a manual, and even if it did, we’d probably lose it or use it to sell puff puff. Embrace the chaos and find humor in it. After all, it’s pretty funny to think we’re all stumbling around pretending to be adults.
Only if adoption applies to us, the so-called adults. You know what I mean.
Step 3: Give Yourself a Reality Check
Take a moment to list out your achievements. No, really. Write them down. That promotion you got? Not a fluke. The project you nailed? Not just dumb luck. The job you got? Not just your pretty face.
Look at the evidence and remind yourself that you’re competent, skilled, and deserving of your accomplishments. And if you still need convincing, ask a friend. Sometimes it takes an outside perspective to see the obvious: you’re pretty awesome.
Step 4: Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
I can’t stress this enough. This is one of the easiest way to destroy yourself. Comparison is the thief of joy and the best friend of imposter syndrome. Social media doesn’t help, with everyone curating their lives to look like a highlight reel. No seriously, social media makes you feel inferior and a success repellent.
You begin to question why or what are you doing wrong. Better don’t kill yourself. Remember, for every perfect Instagram or LinkedIn post, there’s a mountain of unposted failures and insecurities. Focus on your own journey.
Sure, your colleague might be amazing at public speaking, but you’re probably great at something they’re not. Like binge-watching an entire series in one weekend. Own it.
Step 5: Learn to Accept Compliments
If you’re the type who deflects compliments like a ninja deflects throwing stars, it’s time to stop. When someone praises your work, don’t brush it off with an “Oh, it was nothing, anyone could’ve done it.”
Instead, practice saying “Thank you” and actually believing it. People don’t just hand out compliments for fun (unless they’re trying to sell you something). Accepting compliments gracefully is a step towards recognizing your own worth.
Step 6: Fake It Till You Make It
No one is born with confidence. It’s like a muscle—you have to work on it. Start by acting like you belong, even if you don’t feel like it. Walk into that meeting with your head held high. Speak up in that brainstorming session.
Before you know it, you’ll start believing your own act. And here’s the kicker: so will everyone else.
Step 7: Talk About It
One of the best ways to diminish imposter syndrome is to talk about it. Now, don’t go ranting out to the gossip of the town like lady whistle down in Bridgerton.
Chances are, when you open up about your feelings, others will too. You’ll quickly realize that most people feel like they’re faking it at some point. By sharing your experiences, you create a supportive environment where everyone can help lift each other up.
Plus, misery loves company, right?
Step 8: Reframe Your Thinking
Instead of seeing your achievements as a result of luck or timing, start attributing them to your skills and hard work. When you succeed, give yourself credit where it’s due.
And when you fail (because everyone does), don’t see it as proof of your inadequacy. Instead, view it as a learning opportunity. Remember, even Beyoncé wasn’t built in a day and that’s on period.
Step 9: Seek Professional Help
If imposter syndrome is seriously holding you back, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or coach can provide strategies to help you manage these feelings and develop a healthier mindset.
There’s no shame in getting help; in fact, it’s a sign of strength. Plus, therapists are great listeners(they’re paid to do that), and sometimes you just need to vent about that one coworker who always seems to have it all together.
Step 10: Celebrate Your Wins
Lastly, take the time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Finished that big project? Treat yourself to something nice. Landed a new client?
Take a moment to bask in your success. By celebrating your wins, you reinforce the idea that you’re not just lucky—you’re talented and deserving.
Conclusion
Imposter syndrome is a stubborn beast, but it’s not unbeatable. By recognizing it, talking about it, and giving yourself the credit you deserve, you can start to silence that nagging voice in your head. Remember, everyone feels like a fraud sometimes.
The trick is not letting it stop you. So go out there, own your success, and next time imposter syndrome rears its ugly head, laugh in its face. Because, honestly, you’re pretty amazing.
Best of luck!
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Dorcas is a creative and witty writer who crafts relatable content. When she's not devouring books or binge-watching movies and mystery documentaries, she's probably eating (because who can write on an empty stomach?).
