Fake It 'Till You Make It

The Secret Life of an Accidental Fraudster

Imposter Syndrome is that insidious voice in our heads that casts doubt, questioning our capabilities and achievements. Astonishingly, over 70% of individuals have experienced this sensation, according to the US National Institutes of Health. So, let's delve into how we can put these feelings to rest once and for all, using a structured approach.

1. Recognising Your Imposter Archetype

Which of these resonates with your experience?

• The Genius: Acquiring skills is second nature, but you're floored when things don’t come easily.
• The Expert: Feel stagnant unless you've consumed all available knowledge on a subject.
• The Perfectionist: Striving for unattainable benchmarks, only to fall short every time.
• The Superhero: The notion that burning the midnight oil is the only way to success.
• The Soloist: Hesitating to reach out, even when assistance could be a life saver.
• Recognise and acknowledge your type; it’s the first step to overcoming it.

1. Embracing Compliments

Accepting praise isn't boastful; it's affirming. Here's how to graciously accept it:

• Jot It Down: Maintain a journal or a digital note, and revisit it often.
• Take a Breath: Before reacting, pause and understand what was said.
• Seek Insight: Ask for the story behind the compliment; it gives depth to the appreciation.

1. The Mirror as Your Metric

It's tempting to measure ourselves against others, especially in the age of curated social media. Remember, what glitters is not always gold. Everyone faces battles unseen. Your only true benchmark is your past self.

1. Chronicle Your Triumphs

Memories fade, but records remain:

• A Repository of Praise: Create a folder (physical or digital) to store kind words, testimonials, and accolades.
• Document your wins: Celebrate and remember your wins, whether big or small..
• Having a tangible collection provides solace during moments of self-doubt.

5. The Uncertain Journey to Mastery

The path to excellence is often riddled with setbacks. Consider Rowling, whose renowned Harry Potter series faced numerous rejections, or Edison, who saw a myriad of failures before the light bulb moment (quite literally). The lesson? Treat every setback as a step closer to your goal.

6. The Power of an Alter-Ego

Doubt can cripple, but sometimes, assuming a different persona can shield us from this vulnerability. Celebrities like Beyonce created alter-egos to navigate their early careers with confidence. Perhaps it’s time for you to craft your avatar, a fearless version to face challenges head-on.

In Conclusion

Imposter Syndrome is a universal challenge, but not an insurmountable one. By understanding, accepting, and taking proactive measures, we can certainly keep it at bay. The next time doubt creeps in, how will you silence it?