You're Not a Fake: How to Deal with Imposter Syndrome at Work
Ever feel like you're just faking it at work? Like you're totally unqualified and everyone's going to find out you're clueless? Well, guess what? You're not alone. Even after 16 years as a nurse (7 of these as an NP), I STILL feel this from time to time. This feeling, called imposter syndrome, is super common, especially among women in the workplace.
Imposter syndrome is like that annoying voice in your head that whispers, "I don't deserve this," "I'm not good enough," or "I'm just a fraud." It can make you hesitate to take on new challenges, question your accomplishments, and even make you feel like you're on the verge of being exposed as a fake.
Here's the good news: you're not actually a fake. Imposter syndrome is just a pattern of negative thinking that you can learn to recognize and challenge. Here are a few tips that I have found to help me silence that inner critic and be my best self:
Figure out what makes you feel like an imposter. What situations or circumstances typically trigger those nagging thoughts? Once you know your triggers, you can start to develop strategies for dealing with them.
Challenge those negative thoughts. When you start to feel like an imposter, take a step back and ask yourself if those thoughts are really true. Are they just your inner critic trying to hold you back?
Write down your wins. Make a list of all your accomplishments, no matter how big or small. This will help you to see your own value and remind yourself of what you're capable of.
Talk to someone you trust. Talking to a friend, mentor, or therapist can help you to gain perspective on your feelings and develop coping mechanisms.
Remember you're not alone. Lots of people, even super successful ones, have struggled with imposter syndrome at some point.
Overcoming imposter syndrome takes time and effort, but it's definitely possible. By recognizing your triggers, challenging your negative thoughts, and focusing on your accomplishments, you can learn to silence your inner critic and build your confidence.
And here are a few more tips for women in the workplace:
Don't compare yourself to others. Everyone is on their own journey, and comparing yourself to others will only make you feel worse.
Celebrate your successes. Take the time to give yourself a pat on the back for your accomplishments, no matter how big or small. This will help you to build your confidence and self-belief.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don't be afraid to reach out to your colleagues or mentors for support.
Remember, you are capable, competent, and worthy of success. And you are not alone!
