3 Tactics to Deal with Impostor Syndrome

Impostor syndrome is a belief that success that has been earned is not deserved nor worthy of praise and attention.

Many people with impostor syndrome find themselves crippled by the fear that others will discover they aren't as knowledgeable or skilled as they seem to be. Thus, they work hard to prevent this from happening or avoid scenarios where they feel exposed. At the same time, there are various ways to begin to deal with impostor syndrome. The rest of this article outlines three of those strategies. The perfect starting point!

Track & Measure Success

Often, people with impostor syndrome do not attribute their successes to their efforts. This feeds the belief that they are not deserving of their accomplishments. However, when we track and measure our success, it can be challenging to overlook it.

Being intentional about capturing our efforts and the successes they lead to can directly combat ideas about our lack of ability or intellect by proving on paper how our actions have led to a positive outcome. For example, suppose we can visibly see that we are responsible for achieving good things. In that case, it can boost confidence and throw a dent in impostor syndrome.

Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is an idea that we are not fixed on our current capabilities or knowledge. Instead, it is the belief that we can grow and increase our knowledge and abilities with some effort and energy over time.

A growth mindset helps us better cope with scenarios where we are critiqued, challenged, or face failure. When we understand that these instances are simply growth opportunities, we'll be less likely to internalize them as proof of failure or inadequacy. Thus, we become more resilient and can actively seek additional learning and growth opportunities.

Replace Negative Thinking

This practice requires actively noting those thoughts we have about ourselves that are discouraging and negative and addressing them at the moment. This works to interrupt negative thought patterns that reinforce negative impostor syndrome.

By shutting down negative thoughts, we keep them from taking root and redirect them towards thoughts that uplift us, encourage us, and highlight our capabilities and potential. This essentially keeps the thoughts that serve as the foundation of impostor syndrome from developing, giving little to no room for the syndrome to thrive.

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