By: Alison Weihe (identity intelligence coach)

Introduction

Impostor Syndrome, a psychological phenomenon characterized by persistent self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as a fraud, affects many of us, some more than others- across various domains of life. It is not defined by class, or culture. In fact, very often high achievers are driven by the constant whip of achieving more, doing more and being better. It can be paralyzing, hindering personal growth and professional success. Previously, we just live alongside unnamed but, felt self-doubt. Now we are able to delve into the intricacies of Impostor Syndrome. Now we are able to explore its causes, manifestations, and most importantly, strategies to overcome it.

By understanding and addressing this phenomenon, we can pave the way towards greater self-acceptance, confidence, and fulfillment.

Understanding Impostor Syndrome

Impostor Syndrome is a deeply-rooted belief that one’s accomplishments are the result of luck or deception, rather than one’s genuine ability or competence. Individuals suffering from this syndrome often experience feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and an overwhelming fear of being exposed as a fraud. Despite external evidence of their competence, they persistently attribute their successes to external factors or downplay their achievements.

Causes and Triggers

Impostor Syndrome can stem from various factors, including your upbringing, societal expectations, and personal experiences.
Perfectionism, where individuals set unrealistically high standards for themselves, can exacerbate these feelings of self-doubt.
Additionally, significant life transitions, such as changing environments, starting a new job or pursuing higher education, can trigger feelings of insecurities and amplify Impostor Syndrome.

Overcoming Impostor Syndrome

Recognizing and addressing Impostor Syndrome is crucial to overcoming its grip. I have found these strategies to be helpful in navigating this strange phenomenon. Imposter Syndrome can be a debilitating handbrake to both achieving and celebrating one’s growth. It can paralyze one’s inherent value and sense of self-worth. That is why it is critical that we delve into its power to paralyse, so that we can unlock the power of transcendence.

1. Normalize the Experience

Understand that Impostor Syndrome is more common than you might think. Many accomplished individuals have experienced it, which illustrates its irrationality. Recognize that it does not reflect your true worth or abilities.

2. Challenge Negative Self-Talk

Cultivate self-awareness and identify the negative self-talk patterns that reinforce feelings of inadequacy.
Replace self-deprecating thoughts with positive affirmations, focusing on your strengths and achievements.

3. Acknowledge and Celebrate Achievements

Develop a practice of acknowledging and celebrating your accomplishments, regardless of their size. Keep a record of your successes and revisit them when self-doubt arises.

4. Move your body

That helps you get out of your headspace. I go to the gym and lift heavy weights to dissipate anxiety. We are cellular intelligence. Moving our bodies, whether walking outdoors in nature or creating muscle fatigue, shifts the chemistry in our body and get us back into alignment of our spirit.

5. Seek Support

Share your feelings with trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can provide guidance and reassurance.
Connecting with others who have experienced
Impostor Syndrome can also be helpful, as it diminishes the feelings of isolation. That makes us feel less alone, less weird and yes, more human.

6. Embrace Failure and Growth

Accept that failure is a natural part of the learning process. Embrace the concept of a growth mindset – understanding that setbacks and mistakes are opportunities for personal development and improvement.

7. Set Realistic Goals

Adjust your expectations and set realistic goals that align with your abilities and circumstances. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Allow for a sense of progress and accomplishment along the way.

8. Seek Professional Help

If Impostor Syndrome significantly impacts your daily life or mental well-being, consider seeking support from a mental health professional.

9. Avoid comparing yourself to others

Comparison is the death knell of confidence. Social media can be so disarming, so filtered, so unrealistic. No – one sees the struggle behind the glossy facade of events or awards.

10. Build your identity rather than just setting goals

I have found this to be the most powerful game changer of them all. If I want to be athletic, I automatically eat more healthily, I move more, I think as an athlete, I am pulled toward the identity of constant “Becoming” rather than castigated by goals. Goals often get side- swiped by life. Identity is the true power of transformation.

Conclusion

Celebrate the divine YOU that only you bring to the world. Your gifts, your talents, your smile, your heart, your mind. Noone sees the tears, the challenges, the breakdowns, the heart- stopping moments, the trauma, and the tragedies beneath the triumphs.

Identity Intelligence is closing the gap between the how the world perceives you and how you perceive yourself. It’s the key to true transformation.

We are all just souls on a journey trying to do the best we can wherever we are on our life journey.

As Ram Dass says, “We are all just walking one another home”.

Let’s do it with Grace

Let’s do it with elegance and eloquence

Let’s acknowledge the Impostor Syndrome for what it is. The voice that is not yours. It’s borrowed from the past comes from.

Let’s understand where it

Let’s be real about our struggles

Let’s walk one another home

Embracing the feelings of Imposter Syndrome rather than unrealistic of ditching it is the way we move through it. Understanding it’s why and then it moves beyond it into the power of unstoppable faith – The faith that we came here for reason.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome is coming home to yourself.

Transcending it is being home

Let’s walk one another home.