How to Deal With Imposter Syndrome
Professionals everywhere are susceptible to a problem known as imposter syndrome. For some people, this condition is a distraction that can prevent or stunt professional growth. For others, imposter syndrome can cause debilitating fear, a sudden lack of confidence, and missteps in the workplace.
Imposter syndrome can only be overcome if it is identified and dealt with head-on. At Strong Training and Coaching, we have the services those facing this condition need to work through. Our team utilizes proper coaching and training to eliminate the feelings of inadequacy that many professionals experience when they have imposter syndrome.
Let’s take a closer look at what imposter syndrome is:
What Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is a condition that professionals experience when they doubt their abilities. People suffering from this may believe they have been mistakenly chosen to do a job they are not qualified or able to do.
Often, people suffering from imposter syndrome will look at others in the workplace, compare their performance, and determine that their coworkers are more capable than they are. Ultimately, someone who suffers from imposter syndrome may feel like a fraud, even if they were legitimately selected to do the job they do now. The effects of imposter syndrome vary, depending on the severity of the problem, the professional’s personality, the culture of their workplace, and other factors.
Some people with imposter syndrome may miss out on new job opportunities for fear that they are not suitable for the job. Others fail to thrive because they are afraid of speaking up or demonstrating their capabilities in a workplace setting. Many also switch jobs, look for more accessible careers, or simply fail to realize their full potential.
A leader suffering from imposter syndrome might find themselves unable to make hard decisions that could help their team or shy away from taking risks that could lead to greater success. People in these positions cannot guide others if they are constantly second-guessing their own abilities. They are not the only ones who suffer in these circumstances — their team does, too.
How to Manage Imposter Syndrome Before It Manages You
It’s very common to suffer from some form of anxiety around performance at work. Many people wonder whether they are really worthy of their job, salary, or responsibilities at one time or another. Professionals who can manage this anxiety can avoid crippling feelings of uncertainty that could stunt their career.
If you are experiencing imposter syndrome, these tips can help:
- Make lists of your accomplishments. You achieved a lot to get where you are today. Create a list of your achievements and keep adding to it as you go along.
- Avoid the temptation to compare yourself to others. Focus on what you’ve accomplished. Don’t worry about others in the office and how they measure up.
- Observe your feelings, but don’t judge them. If you’ve ever practiced mindfulness, this will be a familiar exercise. Allow yourself to feel your anxiety without letting it rule your behaviors. Practice breathing techniques while you take time to recognize your emotions.
Find a mentor for personal career coaching or online career coaching to guide you with a stress management plan. Many professionals second guess themselves because they feel like they must act alone and on their instincts to be a good leader. You’ll feel more confident in your decisions if you have someone you can talk to who can provide feedback and help you sort through problems with your strategies.
Ideally, your coach or mentor will even poke holes in your ideas, thus allowing you to develop stronger, better ideas overall so you can act with confidence at the workplace.
In-Person and Online Career Training Options for Professional Development
Don’t struggle to gain confidence at work — find a private career counselor who can help you soar to new heights. Strong Training and Coaching has worked with clients from companies like Google, Facebook, and more to improve team performance. We provide online and in-person training to professionals just like you.
For more information about employee burnout signs and how we can help you build your career in the post-COVID-19 job market with our coaching services, call us today to get started!
