Merriam Webster dictionary defines Imposter Syndrome
As “a psychological condition that is characterized by persistent self doubt concerning one’s abilities despite evidence of one’s ongoing success”(Merriam-Webster, 2023).
Imposter syndrome can occur at any moment in our lives, and when it occurs we often experience a loss of self worth.
We tend to diminish our true value as human beings.
When we reach a level of stability we often question ourselves, is this success meant for me?
Am I truly intelligent? Or is this some kind of mistake?
Feeling like an imposter is perfectly normal, however we have to be cautious.
Imposter syndrome can cause an individual to endure feelings of low self esteem, depression and anxiety.
The good thing about imposter syndrome is that everyone goes through it no matter what status they currently live in.
During these moments, talk to your friends, colleagues, and family relatives.
Having a support system can alleviate the symptoms.
If there is a skill that you wish you could improve on, do it.
Do not be afraid to ask questions because more likely than not someone else is probably asking the same question.
Imposter Syndrome can be difficult to live with and it is a condition that does not really have an exact cure.
The only thing you can do is not let it control you.
You need to get out of that funk!
Don’t let those negative thoughts take over your life.
Think about all the accomplishments you have made up until now.
For example, you’re an older adult getting a graduate degree and you may believe out of your element.
Your response or thought process should entail, yes but I was accepted by the graduate program.
As cliche as it seems you have to think positive about yourself.
According to the Verywell mind website there are 5 types of Imposter Syndrome:
“(1) The Perfectionist
(2) The Expert
(3) The Natural Genius
(4) The Soloist
(5) The Superperson” (Cuncic, 2023)
The article defines these 5 different types of imposter syndrome as the following:
I. The Perfectionist. Involves the belief that unless you are absolutely perfect, you’re not as good as others might think you are.
II. The Expert. The expert feels like an imposter because they don’t know everything there is to know about a particular subject or topic.
III. The Natural Genius. You may feel like a fraud simply because you don’t believe that you are naturally intelligent or competent.
IV. The Soloist. Feeling like an imposter when you had to ask for help and questioning your own competence and/or abilities.
V. The Superperson. Is the belief that you must be the hardest worker or reach the highest levels of achievement possible and, if you don’t, you are a fraud. (Cuncic, 2023)
As you can see imposter syndrome can affect an individual in a variety of ways.
The important thing to remember is that you are not alone.
Millions of people experience self doubt everyday and you are not the exception.
The great takeaway of this article is to remind yourself that you are only human and no one is perfect.
The purpose of making mistakes is to learn from them and teach others along the way.
Do not be afraid to share your insecurities because in the long run it will improve your self esteem.
Remember that no empire was built in a day and you can’t expect the same.
Things take time to form, grow and expand.
However, if you reach a breaking point, do not hesitate to contact a therapist or a medical professional.
Sometimes your emotions can be an outcry for more emotional support.
This post was written by Jasmine P., and published by Convenient Counseling Services.
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