How can you develop adaptability to overcome imposter syndrome?

Experiencing imposter syndrome is quite natural because it is a role we take on and not our true self. The sensation of not feeling good enough, or not knowing what to do, or not being experienced enough all feed into a 'belief' that you, personally, should not be in the role or that others will see you are not skilled etc. However, when kids experience any of the above, we usually tell them it's normal to feel uncertain or insecure or to doubt our own capabiliites. If we are wise adults, we help them to calm down, stay focused and keep at it so they can develop the self-assurance to succeed over time. This is true for adults. Developing self-assurance is the anti-dote for feeling like an imposter. Remember it's only a feeling not the truth

Embrace a Growth Mindset: Adopt a growth mindset, which is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. Recognize that imposter syndrome is often rooted in fixed mindset thinking, where you believe your abilities are fixed and any challenges or setbacks are evidence of your incompetence. Embracing a growth mindset allows you to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

Embracing uncertainty isn't about having all the puzzle pieces. It's about reveling in the unknown, knowing that therein lies the space for growth. As we navigate the labyrinth of imposter syndrome, imagine uncertainty as though it were a canvas of opportunity. Picture this: every unanswered question, not as a sign of inadequacy, but as an invitation to explore uncharted territories. It's in those unscripted moments that innovation thrives and resilience takes root. Embrace the unknown, and watch as it becomes the launching pad for your evolution, propelling you beyond the confines of doubt and into the realm of boundless possibilities. Remember, the beauty isn't in having all the answers, but in the courage to explore the questions.

Most people don’t know this, but I've struggled with imposter syndrome throughout my career, and continue to still struggle with it sometimes even now. One of the things that took me years to understand about myself was that I was assuming physiological ownership over workplace issues/challenges that were really not my issues to solve. Those issues really "lived" with other people that I have worked with over the years. In turn, I created a dynamic for myself where I sometimes felt like I was coming up short, in spite of the fact that others around me were telling me I was doing a good job. Embracing uncertainty, to me, is learning to embrace the team's outcome, even though they did not use your roadmap to get there.

Seek Feedback and Validation: Imposter syndrome often arises from a lack of validation and a fear of being exposed as a fraud. Actively seek feedback from trusted mentors, colleagues, or supervisors who can provide objective assessments of your work and accomplishments. Internalize positive feedback and use it to counteract negative self-perceptions.

Learn from Others' Experiences: Seek out stories and experiences of successful individuals who have experienced imposter syndrome. Understand that many accomplished professionals have faced similar doubts and fears. Learning from their journeys can provide inspiration and reassurance that you are not alone in your feelings.

A great technique I have used with my students has helped many of them deal with imposter syndrome successfully. In a couple of the courses I have developed, I have a module on career development including writing your resume. We review best practices for highlighting educational and professional experiences, bringing out the best and most relevant aspects of their background. Here’s the key (and it works for anyone): once you have a good resume in hand, if you are ever feeling imposter syndrome, just call it up and take a look at it. But imagine that a friend or family member, or even a fellow student or colleague, gave you that resume. Wouldn’t you be impressed? Wouldn’t you compliment that person? Try viewing yourself the same way.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and compassionate toward yourself. Acknowledge that imposter syndrome is a common experience and that it does not define your worth or abilities. Treat yourself with the same understanding and empathy you would extend to others facing similar challenges. Practice self-care, engage in activities that bring you joy, and cultivate a positive mindset.

Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of peers, mentors, and friends who can offer encouragement, guidance, and reassurance. Share your experiences and feelings with them, and allow them to provide perspective and support.

People are complex beings with layered experiences that affect how we show up at work, at home, in relationships, in spaces of worship, in volunteer spaces, etc. Many times, issues that affect how we process our contributions at work are related to things in our subconscious that we’re not even aware of. I can’t underscore the importance of finding a therapist to help one unpack some of these experiences, and address their root causes. We all want to be better versions of ourselves, but sometimes we need an outside perspective to help us develop a plan. Take it from someone who knows imposter syndrome well. You are enough. You are worthy. ??