What do you do if you're feeling like an imposter during your brand strategy internship?

First, acknowledge that imposter syndrome is normal, especially in a demanding field like brand strategy. Don't let those feelings paralyze you. Reframe your thinking. You were hired for a reason, focus on your strengths. Seek out a mentor, even within your internship (they likely felt the same way when starting out). Break down large tasks into manageable steps, and celebrate each win, however small. This is a learning process, not a test, so embrace the growth.

Sometimes, feeling like an imposter isn't just lack of confidence. It can come if you've spent a while without investing in learning, knowledge or taking on a challenge. It could be valid. It is critical to recognize and accept your sentiments of imposter syndrome rather than dismissing or denying them. Recognize that imposter syndrome is prevalent, particularly in high-pressure situations such as internships, and that it does not determine your worth or competency. Acknowledging your vulnerability allows you to confront and conquer it with honesty and self-compassion. Then you can address the root cause and tackle.

Acknowledge your feelings of imposter syndrome as a normal part of growing in your role. Understand that even seasoned professionals have faced similar doubts. Identify specific fears fueling your imposter feelings, whether it's a lack of knowledge or anxiety over presenting ideas. Recognizing these thoughts is a crucial step in addressing and overcoming them.

It's okay to feel this way. Imposter syndrome can come from without or within so examine yourself to see the source of it. If it's from within is it a lack of knowledge or experience? If it's from without, is it a feeling of not belonging or being the "only" or "one of a few"? Having this information will help to frame your next steps to begin to tackle, reduce or overcome the feeling.

The said 'Impostor Syndrome' in itself is often a psychological reflex of our subconscious originating from recognizing and/or expecting a certain uncomfortable event based on our past experiences and how we have been treated in similar events/scenarios. Hence, trying to remind ourselves that it is not only alerting us to a possible negative situation but also is making us aware of things we can do to be prepared, safe and armed with right resources, tools and response, in fact can turn impostor syndrome into an ally for our growth and performance. It also gives us the power to operate from a place of truth and integrity including saying 'I do not know the answer to this' where need be. It takes a bit of practice but it is totally worth!

This is often referred to as imposter syndrome. Consider making more friends at work and observing others in similar positions. Are they more knowledgeable than you are in reality? Of they indeed are, seek advise with respect and humility. Also think of courses that can help you upskill. There are many that are free online. You do not need to inform anyone you are taking them. If all else fails, perhaps it is time to reassess if this is the right firled for you. Assess your own skills set and analyse where you will best flourish and be of the greatest asset to your organization.

Don't be afraid to seek help from mentors, supervisors, or peers who can provide advice, encouragement, and perspective. Share your concerns and challenges with trusted people who can offer constructive comments, reassurance, and practical assistance for overcoming impostor feelings. Remember that getting help is a show of strength, not weakness, and you are not alone in feeling these emotions.

The very first thing to remind yourself as an Intern is that - you are an intern, someone who is here to learn on the job. Hence, you are not supposed to know everything or even enough - this is in fact your place and time to make mistakes, learn and armor yourself with guidance, knowledge and resources that you may not have even thought of. Therefore, when you don't know what you don't know, seek support. - Ask questions. - Even ask questions about who can you ask. - Instead of trying to impress, focus on learning. - Listen to your mentor, seniors, colleagues. - Be discerning with the knowledge you receive. - Research, verify, seek clarification. Seeking support from those in the know is respecting them and valuing your own role.

Internships aren't just about watching others do the work. You need to set goals for yourself and actively work toward them, obtaining the help you need along the way. Even if it takes you 3x the time to finish a project as it would take an employee, you will learn so much more from completing the work yourself instead of just watching the employee do it (or listening to a lecture about it). Brand Strategy is just like math - you have to consistently practice, receive constructive feedback, and improve to become an expert.

One of the most important favors we can do to ourselves is to accept that we are always learning. For this very reason I never use the term 'expert' or 'guru' with anyone because to me, the moment we think 'we know it all' or 'more than everyone else' or 'that we do not need to know more' - we immediately stop being the experts at all. Instead, being open to learn, from anyone, any age, any walk of life keeps our eyes, ears, minds and hearts open to know more, do better, improve every chance we get. Careful though, not to mistake or adapt it as a version of perfectionism. That is a different goat!

Maximize this feeling by GAMIFYING IT. Imposter syndrome is a high class problem, and if you treat the feeling as a pointer to upgrade your skillset and mindset, it'd quickly become an ally instead of foe. How? Consider your internship an opportunity for learning, experimenting, and skill development rather than a test of your natural qualities or expertise. Approach each activity or project with curiosity, openness, and a desire to learn from both achievements and setbacks. Seek for opportunities for professional growth, training, and feedback to improve your knowledge and skills in brand strategy.

Embrace failure as a natural and inevitable part of the learning process, rather than a reflection of your inadequacy or incompetence. Shift your perspective on failure from a negative outcome to a valuable opportunity for growth, resilience, and self-discovery. Cultivate a mindset of curiosity, experimentation, and resilience that allows you to bounce back from setbacks with renewed determination and insight.

The most important thing is, there is nothing called failure. I strongly believe that is a toxic masculinity, patriarchal invented social construct to keep people from trying to grow and be better versions of themselves. We are 'socially constructed' to believe we must compare ourselves to others and if we do not do as well as others did, we are a failure. It isn't so! As long as you are willing to learn from what did not work, why it did not and what can you do better - coupled with willingness to try again, and again until you reach the point where you feel accomplished and fulfilled, you did not fail - you gained experience. Hence, I reframe it as 'Embrace opportunities for Growth'.

A little self-reflection goes a long way. Find 10 minutes in the day to reflect on your day. Maybe even journal about it. I do. I write 4 things everyday - 1. How did I wrong myself today? 2. What am I grateful for? 3. What did I do so well that I should repeat it? 4. What can I focus on from what this day taught me? and I find that it helps me in most scenarios - not just in once a day journaling but also in any adverse moments where I feel conflicted or cornered and I need clarity to move forward. I must add, as you are reflecting, listen to the 'voice of your body' .. your body and its language tells you what agrees with you and what doesn't and helps you operate from a place of integrity, clarity and confidence.

Take the opportunity to reflect on your internship experiences, accomplishments, and problems. Conduct regular self-assessments and introspection to uncover patterns, strengths, places for growth, and lessons gained. Use reflection as a tool for self-awareness, self-discovery, and personal development, and use the insights you gain to guide your future actions and decisions.

Feeling like an imposter in your brand strategy internship? Time to flip the script: Embrace the "Newbie" Nook: Celebrate being the rookie. It's your secret pass to ask questions, make mistakes, and soak up knowledge like a sponge. Craft Your Crew: Build alliances with fellow interns and mentors. Sharing "imposter" moments can turn them from fears into inside jokes. Journal the Journey: Keep a "Wins and Wonders" diary. Note every little victory and every moment of awe. It'll show you how far you've come, one page at a time. Transform imposter syndrome into your internship superpower. After all, every master was once a disaster.

Maintain a healthy work-life balance, engage in activities that offer you joy and relaxation, and seek help from friends, family, or mental health specialists when needed. Challenge perfectionism and unreasonable expectations by accepting imperfection, taking strategic chances, and appreciating progress over perfection. Remember that conquering imposter syndrome is a journey, not a destination, and it is acceptable to seek assistance and support along the way. Maintain patience, persistence, and compassion for yourself as you go through this process of self-discovery and progress.