Do you ever feel inadequate in your work, like you’re not qualified or skilled enough to do what you’re doing, that you don’t deserve the achievements you’ve accomplished, or that your success is due to luck or good timing? Well, you may be suffering from something called Imposter Syndrome. 

Although Imposter Syndrome isn’t a medical diagnosis, it’s estimated that 25-30% of adults suffer from symptoms of it.

So, what exactly is Imposter Syndrome? 

Dr. Bullock, Ph.D., defines Imposter Syndrome as “feeling inadequate in professional-related endeavours despite having more than enough expertise and experience in a certain field.” So, even though you’re qualified and experienced in the field, you don’t feel good enough or like you belong there.

Imposter Syndrome can show up in many different ways for each person. But most commonly, if you’re experiencing Imposter Syndrome, you will likely feel:

• Incompetence despite demonstrated competency
• Disappointment by not meeting their expectations
• Incapable of performing at the same level each time
• Uncomfortable with praise or recognition
• Undeserving of past and current accomplishments
• Doubt, stress, anxiety, and inadequacy

Imposter Syndrome is more common in high-achieving women than men, and if you fall into this category, here are 4 things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

Validate your feelings

Acknowledge how you are feeling and validate them. Talk to a friend, family member, or professional outside your workspace (or the space where you feel this way the most). 

Change your mindset

Negativity breeds more negativity. Try changing those negative thoughts into positive ones, and you will begin to believe in yourself. If you’re unsure where to start, write down a sentence proving those negative thoughts are not facts.

Take time to rest  

Allow yourself to rest when you become overwhelmed by these feelings. Meditating, journaling, and self-reflection can help you overcome some of these feelings. Then, when you feel ready, you can start again by taking things one day at a time. 

Stop comparing yourself to others, especially on social media  

Remember, what you see on social media is only the highlight reel of someone’s day. Very few people are showing the hard times, the insecurities, or their own stressors on their daily feed. Instead, focus on face-to-face interactions with the people who care, love, and support you. 

Overcoming imposter syndrome requires changing your mindset about your abilities and expertise. You need to acknowledge your achievements and continually remind yourself that you have earned your place in this space. Above all, keep moving forward with your business and remind yourself that you are doing your best (which is good enough!).