imposter syndrome

September 29, 2016

Don’t Let Feeling Like an Imposter Hold You Back

We’ve all had that feeling of being a poser, being unworthy, or being unqualified to do something we’ve been tasked to do. But the fact that everyone occasionally suffers from impostor syndrome (even CEOs) doesn’t make it any easier to handle. Next time you feel like you’re in over your head, try these three things:

(1) Recognize the benefits of being a novice. 
There are positives to being new in your field. When you’re not steeped in the conventional wisdom of a given profession or industry, you can ask questions that haven’t been asked before or approach problems in ways others haven’t thought of.

(2)Adopt a learning mindset. 
Focus more on what you’re learning than on how you’re performing. Don’t beat yourself up for making mistakes. Appreciate that your limitations and missteps are helping you develop.

(3)Know that you’re not alone. 
If you’re feeling like an impostor, chances are that others in your situation feel the exact same way. Or, as Tina Fey once quipped, “I’ve realized that almost everyone is a fraud, so I try not to feel too bad about it.”

Adapted from “Everyone Suffers from Impostor Syndrome — Here’s How to Handle It,” by Andy Molinsky