What do you do if you're a teacher struggling with self-doubt and imposter syndrome?

I felt like this when I first started teaching because college did not prepare me for what I was actually doing as a Special Education Teacher. I had to lean on God and he sent me people and resources to help me out along the way. I have learned it is okay to make mistakes. Oftentimes students don't know when you mess up so don't stop because you had a bad lesson. Reflect and seek out guidance from a colleague/peer. If you don't know ask for help. Remember to keep going and don't quit.

Over the past 8 years, I have moved through the grade levels from high school, middle School, and elementary school. I have worked in 2 districts and 4 different schools. I certainly doubted my abilities in that I always felt like I was doing it right. I would compare myself to other SPED teachers and try to do things the way they did. I had to adapt to a lot of changes but I realized I had to find my own way of doing things.

When I first started I had a hard time accepting compliments and when I was critiqued on my paper work I felt like I was being picked on and at times I did feel awkward asking for help and like an outsider. I thought I should know certain things by now and isolated myself from my team. I felt ashamed for going to them and I didn't want to be a burden. I learned to stay humble and it is good to learn from others.

Working with colleagues that share the same interest may help in the battle with Imposter Syndrome (IS) also known as Imposter Phenomenon (IP). When you collaborate with SME's (subject mater experts), mentally record the questions and ideas from all parties. Compare those conversations with your thoughts and ideas. Value your opinions to have merit and write them down. Acknowledge you have something to give back as a SME. Take steps to present on a topic that you are comfortable with and or co-write and later publish a short paper. It is about taking steps. It will take some time and a little wisdom, however, those self-doubt feelings without merit, which can be deceiving, may be rejected.

Reflective Journaling: Start a reflective journal to document your teaching experiences, successes, and moments of doubt. Writing down your feelings can help you process them and recognise patterns or triggers of self-doubt. Reflecting on positive feedback and successes can also serve as a reminder of your capabilities and impact as an educator.

Peer Support Groups: Join or form a support group with fellow educators who share similar feelings. Sharing experiences, challenges, and coping strategies with peers who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating and reassuring. It helps in realising that you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Reflecting on my past I would say is to find what you are good at and work with that strength. I think my strength is coming up with different ways for students to learn by differentiating the lessons based on the students needs.

Mindfulness and Self-Care: Incorporate mindfulness practices and prioritise self-care. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises can help manage stress and anxiety associated with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Prioritising your well-being is crucial for maintaining the emotional and mental energy required for teaching.

I think reflection and being more self aware has helped me with imposter syndrome. Looking at your past and seeing what worked and what didn't work can help get rid of your self doubt. Visualizing where you want to be in the future helps too.