Confessions of a 'not-really-an-imposter'

When I started writing this article, imposter syndrome showed up uninvited, like that one guest who always overstays their welcome. It took a seat at the table and refused to budge, whispering in my ear that I wasn't good enough to write about such a serious topic. I felt like a fraud, like I was pretending to be something I wasn't. But as I sat there, listening to the voice of doubt in my head, I realized something: I wasn't alone. Imposter syndrome is something that affects countless designers, and it's time we started talking about it.

I've been familiar with the feeling of imposter syndrome for quite some time, although I didn't have a name for it at first. Even when I received an award for my final project in college, I chalked it up to luck rather than my own abilities. It wasn't until I received some amazing reviews from prominent leaders in the product design industry that I realized how much I had been relying on external validation. Their praise was unexpected and greatly appreciated, and it gave me a huge boost of confidence in my abilities.

However, I also recognized that I needed to work on being more self-assured and believing in my own talents.

I realized that relying solely on external validation could lead to feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome, which could ultimately hold me back in my career.

For those fortunate enough to be unaware of the concept of feeling like an imposter, #ImposterSyndrome is the overwhelming sense that you're not good enough to be doing the work you're doing. It's the persistent fear that you'll be exposed as a fraud, despite any evidence to the contrary.

For #designers , imposter syndrome can be particularly insidious, given the subjective nature of design work and the constant need to innovate and stay current with new trends and technologies.

Professionals from all levels go through this feeling but women are more likely to experience imposter syndrome than men. Research suggests that up to 70% of women experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. Women with imposter syndrome may also struggle with networking and self-promotion, which can limit their visibility and opportunities for advancement.

Especially #millennials have grown up with the pressures of social comparison and the age of technology as well as the beginnings of overprotective helicopter parenting, which may be contributing to anxiety and fear around work and school performance. ?

This may have a counterproductive impact with people over performing to prove that they are capable, leading to burnouts and deep down dislike or dissatisfaction for work.

I even talked to a few designers about their experiences and here are some of the stories that people generously shared with me:

“Recently, when I was granted creative freedom for an initiative, I experienced self-doubt about my abilities and uncertainty made it difficult for me to perceive myself in the same light as my manager and question if I was capable of meeting their expectations.”

“I have never felt enough to ask for a promotion, as if everyone else knows better than me. My work is amazing and yet there is a persistent feeling that I am not good enough to ask for recognition”

“Only I know how much my heart races whenever I have to standout and present an idea that is deeply personal or original to me. The possibility that others may not like it embarrasses me. I could say I feel terribly panicked and fearful that people will not accept or understand my point of view.”

If you’ve felt like the people above, remember that you aren’t alone. In my experience how I have overcome it is by compelling myself to stay grounded in the present moment, rather than ruminating about the past or anticipating the future, we can direct our attention more sharply to the actuality of our circumstances and release anxious thoughts with greater ease.

Having said that there is no one solution that fits all. We all have different coping mechanisms and experiences. However, there are some tested psychological tricks that can help you overcome imposter syndrome:?

1. Recognize that imposter syndrome is common: Imposter syndrome is experienced by many successful people, and it is normal to feel self-doubt and anxiety about your abilities.
2. Recognize your imposter triggers: For example, if you feel like an imposter when giving presentations, practice your presentation skills and seek #feedback from others. When receiving positive feedback, express gratitude, recognize your strengths, and use it as motivation, and when receiving negative feedback, listen actively, ask questions, and take action.
3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help you stay present and focused, reducing feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Take a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing, meditation, or other mindfulness exercises.
4. Challenge negative self-talk: When you notice these thoughts, try to challenge them by asking yourself if they are based on facts or assumptions
5. Challenge your imposter beliefs: Challenge your negative beliefs about yourself by gathering evidence to support or refute them. Write down your thoughts and feelings, then objectively evaluate them to see if they are accurate or distorted.

Imposter syndrome is a common experience that can limit personal and professional growth, but you can overcome it with self-reflection, support from others, and strategies for managing negative thoughts and feelings.

By embracing imperfection, practicing #compassion , seeking feedback and support, and challenging our imposter beliefs, we can build confidence and resilience to achieve our goals. Let's work together to create a culture of openness and support, where everyone is encouraged to embrace their true potential.