Imposter Syndrome: A Cause for Concern or Celebration?
A friend of mine who was accepted into a master’s program for creative writing a few years ago says he’ll never forget what the department chair said to the incoming cohort at their orientation: “You deserve to be here.”
How did he know he was speaking to a room full of self-conscious artists? Could he hear them thinking, “Someone must have made a mistake letting me in here. How long til they figure out I’m a fraud?” Turns out, the chair and imposter syndrome went way back. During his own master’s program, this now seasoned writer had once been so humiliated by an instructor in front of his peers that he developed a facial tic which lasted for months! He knew exactly what it meant to doubt whether he had truly earned his spot at the table.
Don’t Look Now, But “Imposters” Are All Around You
Self-doubt is often dragged in on the heels of achievement, such as a new job, a promotion, or admission into a competitive program. This is normal. Countless people experience imposter syndrome, including many you would never suspect judging by their outward success and confidence.
It might seem counter-intuitive that success serves as a catalyst for self-doubt, but pause and take a step back. If you just did that thing you weren’t sure you could do, that others said you never would do, then a certain amount of doubt is understandable. It can also feel strange when, after years of busting your ass without recognition, someone finally notices. Not to mention, a degree of stress and adjustment is typical anytime we take on a new role in a new place with new expectations.
Again, this is normal.
Could Imposter Syndrome Be a Good Thing?
Take another step back. What does imposter syndrome really mean?
You put yourself out there. In order to get where you are, you first had to send in that resume or enter that contest. So many people never take that step. But you did. You’re a high-achiever and a risk-taker. Way to go!
Someone recognized your work and with good reason. It doesn’t mean you’re perfect, but there’ll be plenty of chances to fret over imperfections later. For now, practice accepting some praise. Congratulations!
You care. A lot. If you’re worried about being “found out,” then your deeper fear is likely losing something you value and worked hard to attain. You’re not okay with that. You’re also not okay with being a fraud or half-assing it. You take pride in being excellent and authentic. Go you!
You’ve failed before and you’ll fail again. NDB. Those with imposter syndrome are prone to overworking and over worrying for fear the slightest misstep might “expose” them. The truth is that failure is a necessary ingredient in making progress. You wouldn’t have met your most recent goal and you won’t meet your next without it. So, don’t fear failure; just keep failing forward.
You accomplished something big! You did this. Imagine what else you can do. But self-doubt will only slow you down. Use your current success as a reminder that you can meet your goals. And get after it!
Try This...
If you’re still feeling more like a faker than a playmaker, try this: Treat that recent achievement as if it happened to your best friend. Would you tell her she didn’t really earn it, that it was only luck, or that she’d better work twice as hard from now on and hope no one discovers the truth? Hell, no! You’d throw her a party. Maybe it’s time you threw one for yourself.
Need Someone to Help You Celebrate You?
Could you use a little accountability and encouragement as you learn to celebrate your success instead of letting it feed your imposter syndrome? I’m Ashley Pichardo, a licensed mental health counselor, and I’m here to help. When you’re ready, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
