Embracing Impostor Syndrome: A Surprising Path to Growth

In today’s world, dealing with external criticism is tough enough. Yet, many of us make it even harder by harshly criticizing ourselves. Recently, I experienced impostor syndrome for the first time, and surprisingly, I’d welcome it back in a heartbeat. Let me explain why.

Impostor syndrome is the feeling that your achievements are not warranted or that you do not deserve the praise, opportunities, progression, or success that come your way. In my case, this feeling was deeply tied to my martial arts journey.

I have trained in Karate for years and was approaching a 1st Kyu grading. This grading would put me on the home stretch to earning the elusive black belt, so naturally, it meant a lot to me. Throughout my journey, I have been mindful about the martial art, striving to uphold the greatest respect and appreciation at every stage. I am aware of my ability and focus intensely on my progression by practicing diligently, reading books, and attending seminars. I even traveled to Okinawa to learn more and train with karateka (Karate practitioners) in the birthplace of Karate. As if that wasn't enough, I also volunteer to help my sensei at the juniors’ Karate classes.

So imagine my confusion, when 1 week away from grading, impostor syndrome appeared throwing me into doubt about whether I deserved to be graded at this time. I was conscious of the effort I had put in and my ability to perform well, but something just didn't feel right. Impostor syndrome whispered, "You aren't ready for this, you don't deserve to progress. You don't represent a 1st Kyu karateka."

As I look back now 1 week after grading, I can honestly say that impostor syndrome showing up was one of the best things that could have happened. Impostor syndrome should be welcomed, and heres a few reasons why:

1. Impostor Syndrome doesn't reflect your abilities

Take some time to consider your abilities and behaviors. When the self-doubt and negativity are replaced with facts, do you see a difference?

Example: I train every day, I study by reading books and watching documentaries, I volunteer to help others, I attend seminars, I know the expected syllabus well, and while I can always improve, I perform well.

Notice how these facts differ from my feelings.

2. Self doubt shows that you care

If you didn't care about the outcome, you wouldn't become emotional about it. By questioning your worth, you are challenging yourself to be the best you can be.

Example: I hold massive respect for the culture and history of Karate and believe that being a good person is just as important as having a colored belt. My impostor syndrome was challenging and pushing me to be the best person and karateka I could be.

It served to help me, not hinder me.

3. There is no growth in comfort

Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is crucial for your development. Impostor syndrome is a friend by your side, encouraging you to get better

Example: In previous gradings, I always felt confident, knowing I was able to progress. This time, however, impostor syndrome challenged me to push harder. I was forced out of my comfort zone and needed to overcome new barriers.

Impostor syndrome wants you to get better.

Instead of canceling my grading or spending my week worrying and doubting myself, I made the decision to invite my impostor syndrome to the grading panel. I went to the dojo for some final training, and when training finished, I chose to leave the impostor there, knowing that when I turned up to grade a few days later, I’d have to face the judgment of both my sensei and my impostor.

At grading, I visualized the impostor in front of me, welcoming every inch of criticism with a focused smile and appreciation, knowing that I was proving to myself that I was ready and did deserve my 1st Kyu grade. After two hours of intense grading, I passed with an A grade.

When the dust settled and I left the dojo, I was grateful for my impostor syndrome, knowing that through these feelings, I was pushed harder than I had been before. I was able to overcome new challenges and become a stronger and more grateful person because of it.

If impostor syndrome ever turns up in your personal journey, I encourage you to welcome it with open arms. Know that this is just your way of pushing yourself to become a better person.