Imposter Syndrome: What it is + Tips to Fight Back

Most of us can probably relate to being in a situation where we feel like we don’t belong or don’t know what we’re doing. Maybe these feelings come from words spoken to us as we were growing up or struggles with self-esteem. But what happens when those feelings carry from childhood or adolescence into adulthood? That voice in your head saying “you’re not good” enough can become a daily struggle, affecting our confidence, ability to trust ourselves, and can even prevent us from making progress in areas of our lives we’d like to grow. This is called Imposter Syndrome.

In my time working as an intern at The Collective, I’ve struggled with feelings of imposter syndrome. I often find myself having thoughts of I don’t know what I’m doing or I don’t have anything to offer anyone. Here are some tips that have helped me:

1. Confidence Isn’t Necessary

You don’t have to feel like you know what you’re doing in order to do that thing. While feelings of inadequacy are uncomfortable, feeling fully confident in yourself is not necessary to accomplish a goal or work at a job or an internship. Think back to anything you’ve accomplished in your life and there was probably at least one moment where you felt clueless. However, you still accomplished your goal. Imposter syndrome may feel arresting at times, but it doesn’t have to prevent you from doing what you’ve set out to do. And just because something is hard doesn’t mean you’re failing.

2. It’s Not As Obvious As You Think It Is

I think one of the worst parts of imposter syndrome is thinking that everyone around you can tell you feel that way. However, other people often don’t know that this is something you’re struggling with. Recognizing these feelings and talking with someone you trust can help, but so can regularly reminding yourself that other people are not mind readers. Any struggles with imposter syndrome you might be experiencing aren’t always obvious to others, and most people are usually more focused on themselves anyway.

3. Remember That Thoughts Are Not Facts

Thoughts are often based on observations of our environment and aren’t always based on fact. So just because you’re having thoughts of feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one. Next time those thoughts come up, find ways to challenge them. This can be something as simple as “Is that true?”. It can be helpful to not give your thoughts so much power.

4. Be Kind To Yourself

There is an abundance of research showing that, when it comes to accomplishing a goal, being kind to yourself is far more effective than coming from a place of self-loathing. So whatever situation is presenting you with feelings of imposter syndrome, remind yourself that you have more to offer than you think. Your work or input is just as valuable as anyone else’s and you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.