Ever heard of ‘Imposter Syndrome’? I’m sure you most likely have! There have been numerous debates and motivational messages surrounding this ‘phenomenon’ over the years; yet many people, both young and old, experience it countless times. I asked myself, can this truly be eliminated in life? The answer is likely negative. As long as people have self-doubt, perfectionism, expectations, the desire to fit in, new environments, and more, this phenomenon will resonate with us at some point in our lives.
Is this a mentality that can be changed? Absolutely! I believe that no condition is permanent in this life, and where there is a will, there is always a way. Although there will always be that one exception that does not conform.
I have gone through this more times than I care to admit, and I have learnt a great deal through this journey. This experience has prompted me to re-examine myself and my surroundings during that period. Here are my takeaways:
Perfectionism :
‘That person did it so well? Can I do same? They’ll see through it me!’
Life is not perfect. In fact, it is perfect in its imperfection. Over-preparation will never contribute more to anything. Always strive to make an effort and don’t focus on the endgame. We will reach the end eventually, so why rush into the unknown?
Luck :
‘I can’t believe that I did that! No, I couldn’t have done that! It’s all because of….’
When you have that gut feeling that your success stems from a four-leaf clover or some external factor, remember that, regardless of whether that is true, the constant factor is YOU!
Fear :
‘Will I be able to do it?’
I learnt the hard way that fear is detrimental! Are you afraid of not meeting expectations? Why not simply try the task? A wise man once said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Why not go all out? After all, what’s the worst that could happen? You guessed correctly! You fail if you do not try, so why not just give it a go and allow yourself the benefit of the doubt?
Achievements :
‘How can I be the project leader? Did they make a mistake? I am just…’
Just! It’s one singular word that diminishes the importance of many things. I am just doing this or that. It’s also the mind’s way of making one downplay things. Try not to diminish yourself, for you are what you believe and portray. If you were placed in that team or project, it is most probably because you have something to contribute. Believe in that and strive to be a better version of yourself for that role.
So the next time you find yourself thinking: Can I do this? What am I doing? I can’t possibly take on that role or something along those lines, take a break and catch your breath because, when you feel like a fraud, it’s probably a knee-jerk reaction from your brain. You’re likely excelling beyond your norm!
By Loctovia.
Loctovia's Special Space 