Why You should Not Subscribe to Imposter Syndrome

A study by Nami North Carolina showed that 70% of the population has experienced imposter syndrome in their life. But why is that? Now don't get wrong, it is a part of life, but should we make that the case?

Imposter Syndrome Lifecycle

Where does Imposter Syndrome Come From:

Imposter Syndrome can be defined as a pattern or persistent doubt in one's accomplishments, leaving them feeling fearful, fraudulent, or less competent. This feeling might occur in school, relationships, but more frequently, at work. Self doubt gets the best of us, but imposter syndrome knives deeper than such a little uncertainty. There are a few studies that show why:

• Family and childhood: Childhood and Child development are among the biggest reasons why we act the way we act, and why we perceive the way we perceive. Some grow up with inconsistent feedback and noise, leaving doubt in the most vulnerable periods of life. Also, highly successful families are seen to put more pressure on their children to achieve more.

• Social Media: Almost any 21st Century issue can be tied back to social media. But we are seeing it affect not only the younger generation, but now the ones of the pre-tech eras. Social Media is causing low self esteem in many, with the rise of LinkedIn for the adult audience, it is hitting harder than ever to be high achieving in the work force.

• Environment: Being around high achievers or individuals that have a hyper competitive nature can leave one feeling less than.

  
  

Why to Strive Away

As I grow up into adulthood I find myself soul searching (as a lot of others do around this time.) During this time, I have gained a lot of sense into who I am, leading to a steady growth in confidence. With this confidence I start to ponder on why? why should we feel less than or inadequate, especially if we are at a certain level that will even permit a sense of apprehension. The only time one is truly an imposter is if they are faking a lifestyle or directly lying. A time of "imposterism" should be seen as either a moment to grow, learn a new skill, or just reflect on such amazing feats. It's more of a mindset shift than anything. Once you flip your mindset and pull away from the shackles of feeling inadequate, you then start feeling a new shade of confidence and a corroding smell of inferiority. It will leave you feeling free to take on new challenges, knowing that you may not know everything at first. But you learn eventually will. And once you do, it's another belt on the shelf.

Conclusion

  Imposter Syndrome is a real thing, but don't let it be for you. Feeling nervous or uneasy is normal. Feeling limited should not be the norm. Feel those emotions, feel the wavering feeling of a taunting task upon you. But then leave it at that, then go after it and know that you belong.