“I don't belong here"

There is a reason why Radiohead’s “Creep” has resonated with so many people since it was released in 1993, commonly referred to as Imposter Syndrome.

How often do you experience that voice, those words “what the hell am I doing here?”.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern in which we doubt our skills, talents, and accomplishments and making us feel like frauds that don't deserve our successes.

"I don't belong here"

It affects people across all professions and walks of life, from students to CEOs. Imposter syndrome can be debilitating and affect a person's mental well-being and career progression.

How often do you get those persistent feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt despite all evidence to the contrary?

"I am a creep, I am a weirdo"

How often do you believe that your successes are due to luck or external factors rather than your own awesome abilities or efforts?

Imposter syndrome can manifest in different ways, such as feeling like a fraud, fear of failure, and constantly seeking validation from others. These feelings can be overwhelming and can affect your mental health, self-esteem, and career advancement.

What Causes Imposter Syndrome?

There is no single cause of imposter syndrome, but several factors can contribute to its development. These include:

??? Career transition: Starting a new job, a promotion, or a change in career path can trigger feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

??? Comparison with others: Comparing oneself to others and feeling inferior.

??? Perfectionism: People who hold themselves to high standards may feel like they're never good enough, no matter how much they accomplish.

??? Family background: A person's upbringing, cultural background, and family expectations can influence their self-image and beliefs about success.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Overcoming imposter syndrome requires a combination of self-reflection, support, and mindset shifts. Here are some tips to help you overcome imposter syndrome:

??? Recognise and acknowledge your feelings: Acknowledge that you're experiencing imposter syndrome and that it's a common experience.

??? Reframe your thoughts: Challenge your negative thoughts and reframe them in a positive light. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments, rather than your perceived weaknesses.

??? Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend, colleague, or coach about your feelings. It can help to hear others' perspectives and receive validation and encouragement.

??? Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, exercise, and relaxation time.

??? Learn new skills: Improve your skills and knowledge through training, education, and professional development. This can help you feel more confident in your abilities.

Conclusion

Imposter syndrome can be a challenging experience, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Many people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives, and it's normal to feel self-doubt and inadequacy.

By recognizing your feelings, challenging negative thoughts, seeking support from a friend or a coach, practicing self-care, and learning new skills, you can overcome imposter syndrome and achieve your goals.

If this resonates with you and you would like to partner with a coach to overcome your imposter syndrome, or chat about how amazing Radiohead are live, reach out and we'll talk.