Ever feel like a fraud at work? Here’s how to build self-awareness and seek support, with effective strategies from Ravinder Tulsiani

Impostor syndrome, a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud, affects a significant number of professionals across various fields. Despite their success, individuals experiencing impostor syndrome struggle with persistent self-doubt and often attribute their accomplishments to luck rather than ability.  

By understanding one’s thought patterns and emotional responses, individuals can begin to challenge and change them  

This article explores the prevalence of impostor syndrome among professionals and provides strategies for overcoming it, focusing on the importance of self-awareness and external support. 

Understanding impostor syndrome 

Impostor syndrome is not a rare occurrence; it’s estimated that 70% of people will experience at least one episode of this phenomenon during their lives. It is particularly prevalent among high-achievers who set excessively high standards for themselves. This psychological pattern can lead to stress, anxiety, lowered job satisfaction, and even burnout. 

Key characteristics of impostor syndrome

• Persistent self-doubt: Feeling that one’s success is undeserved or a product of luck. 

• Fear of failure: Constantly worrying about not meeting expectations or being exposed as a fraud. 

• Overachievement: Engaging in excessive effort, often more than required, to make sure that no one discovers they are an ‘impostor’. 

Strategies to overcome impostor syndrome 

Overcoming impostor syndrome involves a combination of self-awareness practices and seeking external support. Here are effective strategies to mitigate its effects: 

1. Foster self-awareness 

Self-awareness is crucial in recognising the irrational beliefs that fuel impostor feelings. By understanding one’s thought patterns and emotional responses, individuals can begin to challenge and change them. 

• Reflective journaling: Keeping a journal to document successes and positive feedback can help individuals internalise their achievements. 

• Mindfulness and meditation: These practices can help individuals observe their thoughts without judgment, gaining insight into the root causes of their impostor feelings. 

2. Redefine success and failure 

Changing how success and failure are perceived can alleviate the pressure that feeds impostor syndrome. 

• Set realistic expectations: Understanding that perfection is unattainable and that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growing. 

• Embrace a growth mindset: Viewing challenges as opportunities to learn rather than tests to pass. 

3. External validation and support 

While self-help methods are crucial, external support plays a significant role in overcoming impostor syndrome. 

• Mentorship: Engaging with mentors who can provide guidance, feedback and reassurance can help diminish feelings of being an impostor. 

• Professional counselling: Therapists or counsellors specialising in career-related issues can offer strategies to combat impostor syndrome effectively. 

• Peer support groups: Joining groups where professionals discuss their challenges with impostor syndrome can reduce feelings of isolation and uniqueness of these experiences. 

4. Celebrate achievements 

Regularly acknowledging and celebrating achievements, both big and small, helps to reinforce self-worth and competency. 

• Recognition rituals: Creating personal rituals to celebrate milestones can help internalise achievements. 

• Share success stories: Sharing successes with peers or through professional networks can bolster confidence and provide a realistic perspective of one’s abilities. 

Conclusion 

Impostor syndrome is a widespread phenomenon that can hinder professional growth and personal happiness. By adopting strategies centred around self-awareness and seeking external support, professionals can mitigate the effects of impostor syndrome. Encouraging open conversations about these feelings in the workplace can also cultivate an environment that supports mental health and personal development.  

Ultimately, overcoming impostor syndrome is not about eliminating self-doubt entirely but learning to navigate it effectively. By doing so, professionals can embrace their successes fully and foster a more fulfilling career trajectory. 

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Ravinder Tulsiani is Director SE Learning