Imposter Syndrome: What It Is and How to Overcome It

Do you ever feel like your success is just a stroke of luck or a fortunate coincidence? Do you continuously enroll in new courses because you don't see yourself as a professional and fear others might notice?

Imposter Syndrome is a psychological state where a person devalues their own achievements, skills, and capabilities.

According to statistics, around 70% of successful people experience this at some point in their lives. Perfectionists are especially prone to feeling like imposters, as they strive for perfection and seek validation from others, often comparing themselves unfavorably. People with Imposter Syndrome rarely delegate tasks due to their fears.

Identifying Imposter Syndrome

You might be experiencing Imposter Syndrome if you:

• Believe that anyone could do what you do.
• React painfully to criticism.
• Fear not meeting expectations.
• Compare yourself to others, striving to be the best.
• Struggle to praise yourself.
• Consider your achievements to be just luck.
• Fear being exposed as not good enough in your field.
• Often feel afraid of failure, making it hard to start new projects or tasks.

Imposter Syndrome causes unnecessary worries and doubts in life. As a result, people often limit themselves and occupy positions lower than their abilities.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

1. Set Clear Goals: Define the goal you want to achieve in your field, the result you want to see, and the skill you want to develop. Describe how your life will improve.
2. Challenge Automatic Thoughts: Monitor your inner critic and bring yourself back to the facts (what you have achieved, what results you have obtained).
3. Strengthen Self-Esteem: Ask yourself why you are paid and what value you provide. Give an objective answer.
4. List Your Achievements: Write down your accomplishments and avoid comparing yourself to others. Focus on your own development. As long as there is comparison, the imposter lives on.
5. Talk to Trusted People: Discuss with close, trusted individuals to help form a more realistic view of your abilities.
6. Embrace Mistakes: Don't fear making mistakes. Instead, ask yourself, "What did this situation teach me? What are my weak points and how can I improve them?"

Let your fears become areas of growth and development rather than limitations. Gain experience and be your own support!