What do you do if you're a new professional in Materials Science struggling with imposter syndrome?

I don't have to be a new professional in Material Science to struggle the imposter syndrome (Haha). First, I would like to mention that if you are struggling with imposter syndrome, that means you are aware that no matter how much you know, there is still much more you don't know. So, give yourself a pat on the shoulder for not being ignorant. Second, being new in something necessitate that there are new things you don't know which you will need to learn. If you were accepted for the position, it was because you had what it takes. So, build on what you have. Third, advance yourself on your own but also learn from those around you. There is no shame in that.

Step 1. Write down how did you get to where you are today. What training, learning, overcoming obstacles, sacrificing short term pleasures etc have you done to vet to where you are today. When you look at your journey, you can acknowledge yourself. Also look at what value and impact your dedication and work has delivered - directly, then secondary and further multiplier effects. That’s not all. Check out Step 2. in “other factors to consider”, which most people don’t know.

Step 1. Write down how did you get to where you are today. What training, learning, overcoming obstacles, sacrificing short term pleasures etc have you done to vet to where you are today. When you look at your journey, you can acknowledge yourself. Also look at what value and impact your dedication and work has delivered - directly, then secondary and further multiplier effects. That’s not all. Check out Step 2. in “other factors to consider”, which most people don’t know.

Step 3. Recognize that you see in a zone of discomfort - knowing that whenever you get competent, knowledgeable and comfortable (in the comfort zone, even), you get promoted to the next level of incompetence. That is called the Peter Principle. That is for your growth. Write down what new things this calls you to master and make a learning plan. Check out Step 2 for hidden, sneaky psychological reason to feel like an imposter, and how to use that to your advantage.

That’s a critical point. To achieve that, the same process to follow as described in Step 2, in section Other. You will be yourself to the degree that you make everyone else yourself (Principle of mirror and reflection). Further than that, it helps to KNOW yourself. For that, you need to identify your inner drivers. I will make this Step 4.

Step 2. When you feel as an imposter, on your mind there is a comparison of yourself to someone else, whom you admire and whom you look up to and you believe they are more competent than you. You perceive them as an authority in your field and currently subordinate to them. Here is what you can do to level up in your mind - identify what you admire in them and ask yourself where to yourself demonstrate the same qualities or actions in your own life and work. You have the same qualities, just in your own form. Once you own it fully, you will level up and see across to them, not look up to them and the imposter feeling will disappear.