Impostor syndrome: what it is and how to get rid of it

/unsplash

The impostor syndrome is usually manifested in the following cognitive judgments of people about themselves: “I am overestimated”, “I do not occupy my place, deceive people, and my success is a pure coincidence”.

Usually the impostor syndrome concerns professional activities. Moreover, it is characteristic of people who are successful at work, who put a lot of effort into their professional growth. This is stated on the page Psychological support.

At the same time, they feel guilty for allegedly deceiving others. They are afraid of their imperfection, they are constantly afraid that they will be exposed for unprofessionalism. People with imposter syndrome live in constant fear of being wrong and feel a lot of shame.

These negative thoughts and fears take up a lot of energy, which can lead to burnout, apathy and depression.

The foundations of such experiences are laid in childhood by significant people and the environment. Some of us grew up in idealism and at the same time the impossibility of achieving that ideal that does not really exist. Someone – in ignoring and condemning. There are many reasons.

Here are options how you can help yourself now:

1. Try to realistically assess your professional abilities. Analyze what skills you have, how and where you use them.

2. Talk about your feelings with a psychotherapist or loved ones. This will make you realize that almost every person has feelings about whether they are good enough professionals in their field.

3. Most likely, you often devalue yourself, and there are people in your environment who also devalue you.

4. Pay attention to those around you. Catch yourself when and whom you devalue yourself, with which people you do it.

5. Try to accept recognition of your professional successes from others.

6. Name your achievements, your professional qualities. Don't rate them, just list them.

7. Seek help from a psychotherapist. He will help you understand yourself faster, with a professional your path to self-discovery will be easier.