It's estimated that up to 75% of women and 50% of men experience it at some point in their careers. Therefore, companies often monitor employee work timings with online time trackers to ensure they’re not dealing with a chronic issue at their workplace.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
It is a feeling of not being good enough, even though you are a successful or experienced individual. It can be difficult to overcome, but with some strategies, you can start to feel more confident in your abilities.
Two Types of Imposter Syndrome
There are two types of imposter syndrome: the first is when someone feels like they're not good enough or qualified for their job or role, and the second is when someone feels like they're not good enough or qualified for their success.
Both types of imposter syndrome can be debilitating, but the second type can be especially so.
Main characteristics of Imposter Syndrome
When someone feels like they're not good enough or qualified for their job or role, they may be afraid to take on new challenges or speak up in meetings. They may doubt their abilities and feel like they're just faking it until they make it. This can lead to a lot of anxiety and stress, and can make it difficult to succeed.
When someone feels like they're not good enough or qualified for their success, they may feel like they're frauds. They may be afraid to take credit for their accomplishments or to celebrate their successes. They may feel like they're just lucky or that they've fooled everyone into thinking they're competent. This can be extremely isolating and can make it difficult to maintain motivation.
Five signs you are dealing with Imposter Syndrome
You’ll find that you’re:
- Always second-guessing yourself
- Your own worst critic
- Afraid of failure
- Perfectionistic
- Always comparing yourself to others
Ten ways to overcome Imposter Syndrome
Check out these 10 tips to overcome imposter syndrome:
1. Know that you're not alone.
Imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon, and there are plenty of other people out there who feel like they don't belong. Talk to your colleagues and networking groups about your struggles.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is acknowledging that it exists. Once you realize that you're not alone in feeling like a fraud, it's easier to start working on addressing the issue.
2. Believe in yourself.
When you start to feel like you're not up to the task, remind yourself that you're capable of doing the job and that you're worth the effort.
Remind yourself that you're a good person and forget about how you’re feeling about your work. Remember that you're a good person, and you deserve to be successful.
Many people feel like imposters, even though they're not. Try to reframe your thinking. Instead of thinking, "I'm not good enough," tell yourself, "I'm doing the best I can."
Try to savor some of your past successes and accomplishments. This will help you to see that you do have the skills and talents needed to succeed.
3. Set realistic goals.
Don't set yourself up for failure by setting impossible goals, but instead, aim to achieve goals that are more realistic.
Trying for unrealistic goals will invariably lead to frustration. Instead, aim to achieve goals that are within your reach.
Don't try to be someone you're not. Recognize that you're not expected to be a genius all the time, and that you're allowed to make mistakes.
4. Take care of yourself.
Don’t forget to take some time off for yourself when you're overwhelmed. Get a massage, go for a walk, or watch your favorite show.
When you are feeling better, you will be better equipped to work on overcoming imposter syndrome.
If you are taking care of yourself, you will be less likely to feel like an imposter at work. You will have the energy and focus you need to do your job well. You will also be less likely to feel overwhelmed and stressed out.
5. Take care of your work/life balance.
Make sure you're taking care of your personal life while still meeting your work commitments.
This means making sure that you're not working too much and that you're taking time for yourself outside of work.
Spend time with friends and family, pursue hobbies, and make time for relaxation. It's also important to keep up with your self-care, including eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
6. Ask for help.
How to overcome imposter syndrome at work when you find yourself struggling to meet your goals? Don't be afraid to ask for help, especially when it’s the new job imposter syndrome. Your colleagues or supervisor may be able to provide some assistance.
The HR department can make adjustments to their online work schedule app to accommodate your problem.
Know when to seek help. If you find that your imposter syndrome is getting out of control, it might be time to seek professional help. A therapist can help you understand your symptoms and develop a plan for overcoming them.
7. Open up about your struggles.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, be honest about it. Your colleagues will appreciate your honesty and help you to overcome your imposter syndrome.
Talk about it with your coworkers. It can be helpful to discuss about what is imposter syndrome at work with your colleagues.
By being open about your struggles, you'll start to feel more comfortable in your own skin and be better able to overcome imposter syndrome.
Don’t let imposter syndrome define you.
8. Be persistent.
Don't give up on your goals easily. Persevere through the tough times.
Be persistent, but don't overdo it. When you're feeling overwhelmed, don't try to do too much at once.
Be honest with yourself. If you are feeling like you are not good enough, be honest with yourself. Accept that you have an issue and work to address it. Look back on your productive habits that helped you achieve success earlier.
9. Accept constructive feedback.
When you're given constructive feedback, be sure to accept it. Also, accept compliments graciously. When someone compliments you, don’t immediately reject the compliment. Instead, accept it graciously. This will show that you are proud of your accomplishments and that you are working to overcome imposter syndrome.
Don't compare yourself to others. It's tough to feel like you're not good enough when you compare yourself to other people. Instead, grow on your own accomplishments.
10. Work on your self-confidence.
Start by working on your self-confidence. This means being positive and believing in yourself. It can be difficult, but with time and effort, you will start to feel more confident in your abilities.
Stay positive. When you are struggling, it can be easy to become negative. This will only lead to more frustration and difficulty in dealing with imposter syndrome at work.
Imposter syndrome is a common problem among employees, especially those who are new to their jobs. It can be defined as a feeling of inadequacy or insecurity in one's ability to perform their job, despite having the necessary skills and qualifications.
How does Imposter Syndrome impact your career life?
Imposter syndrome can have a major impact on your career life. If you constantly doubt your abilities and feel like a fraud, you may be less likely to take risks or pursue opportunities. Mental health issues at your workplace can limit your growth and limit your ability to reach your full potential.
Additionally, imposter syndrome can lead to anxiety and stress, which can negatively impact your work performance.
