Studies have shown that around 70% of adults across the globe have experienced this kind of feeling in their lifetime, but what is imposter syndrome in reality?
Imposter syndrome is best described as the fear of being considered a fraud or doubting one's accomplishments.
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Even those who have reached a level of success in their chosen field are often full of anxiety and crippling thoughts of being
considered fraud.
Impostor syndrome is an internal feeling that you believe you are not as qualified as others may think you are.
This is often connected to thoughts of perfectionism and can be applied to your intelligence or achievement.
If you have feelings of being a fraud or that you did not deserve that raise, then you could be dealing with impostor syndrome.
4 Characteristics of Impostor Syndrome
Those who suffer from impostor syndrome doubt their own skills and accomplishments despite the evidence of their success.
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Below, are
4 Common Indicators You May Be Dealing With Impostor Syndrome.
- Deep-seated feelings of fear that you aren’t able to meet expectations.
- Undermining your achievements even when you worked diligently towards that goal.
- Setting unrealistic goals and then feeling disappointed if you do not meet those goals.
- Doubting yourself no matter what you’re working on or working towards.
If you recognize any of the above, there are some things you can do to move past these feelings. Begin by confronting your feelings and any beliefs you hold about yourself.
If you struggle with any of this, consider speaking with a professional or close friend. Confiding in someone can help you gain clarity on your feelings and beliefs.
This feeling or emotion can show in various ways from one person to the next in different social or business settings.
According to Psychologists, this mostly affects introverted personalities. And I would agree with it, but why?
This is because introverts are believed and proven to be the deepest thinkers in the world of personalities according to Myers and Briggs.
They read a lot, study a lot, know a lot, but always keep it on the low and always look for a space to improve. The more they learn the more they realize they know nothing.
Therefore, they always feel insecure and want to know more though they master things... This personality type never stops learning.
Impostor syndrome can be ingrained in you as a child and continue well into adulthood.
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Struggling with feelings of being a fraud can happen to anyone but is seen mostly in successful women.
Research and studies suggest.
According to research done with Psycnet, “despite their outstanding academic and professional accomplishments, women who experience the impostor phenomenon persist in believing that they are really not bright and have fooled anyone who thinks otherwise.”
Do You Have Impostor Syndrome?
So, how do you know if you suffer from impostor syndrome? One way to know if you are dealing with it is to take a free online test.
Simply answer the questions that you can find through a quick online search, or try the free test at Psycom.net.
You can remove impostor syndrome by first recognizing it in your life and seeing how it is affecting you.
Progressively work towards breaking those limiting beliefs by thinking of the quality of work you are performing versus the quantity.
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If someone pays you a compliment, remind yourself that it is a fact and that you deserve it. Begin to recognize your own successes and take time to celebrate the wins in your life.
Eventually, your inner voice will support your new positive thoughts so you can overcome the feelings of impostor syndrome.
There you have it, if you don't take full responsibility to overcome it today, it is going to stay in your life forever...
