IMPOSTER SYNDROME AND HOW TO OVERCOME IT

Good Morning Team!

Okay one of my favorite topics is Imposter Syndrome. I'm a firm believer that many sales people and realtors have this type of problem. I personally believe that it's for one of two reasons. You genuinely feel undeserving or you are simply not prepared enough.

Realtors are paid very good money to help their clients, the bar to entry is very low when you compare it to other industries. This in no way diminishes your value. We are doing amazing things, hard things every day for our clients. do not take that lightly or for granted!

noun:?imposter syndrome?the persistent?inability?to believe that one's success is?deserved?or has been?legitimately?achieved as a result of one's own efforts or skills.

1. "people suffering from impostor syndrome may be at increased risk of anxiety" - Google Dictionary

Let's break down the 2 reasons most people experience Imposter Syndrome

1.) Feeling Unprepared - They are generally not as knowledgeable as they should be or they know they are not living up to their full potential. They know that they can do better but aren't. They know what they fail to do daily to be the professional they need to be but are falling short somewhere. They know that they are not fully prepared and perhaps they feel that based on their own actions are not worth the pay check. They lack confidence.

2.) Feeling Undeserving - They genuinely believe that no matter what they do and how well they do it, they don't deserve the business. For one reason or another, even though they are knowledgeable and they work hard, they do the daily actions needed to become successful, they still feel somewhere inside they are not worth the pay check.

First you need to identify which category you fall under and then we need to break down how to overcome it.?

Let’s dive in!

1.? Feeling Unprepared

• Identify Areas of Improvement: Start by identifying specific areas where you feel you're falling short. Is it knowledge about certain aspects of the market? Is it your sales techniques or negotiation skills? Pinpointing these areas can help you focus your efforts on improvement.
• Set Achievable Goals: Break down your larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks. This can help you build confidence as you make progress incrementally.
• Continuous Learning: Invest time in furthering your education and skills. Whether it's through online videos or courses, with your team, on your own, or coaching, continuous learning can boost your confidence AND competence.
• Practice and Preparation: If you fail to plan you plan to fail - Practice scenarios you're likely to encounter in your appointments. Role-play with colleagues or friends to improve your comfort level and preparedness. Don’t just prepare a CMA on the house, prepare a CMA on the immediate neighboring market!
• Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-talk by reminding yourself of your strengths and past successes. Replace self-doubt with affirmations of your abilities and potential.
• Seek Support: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or colleagues who can offer advice and support. Sometimes, an outside perspective can provide valuable insights and reassurance.

2. Feeling Undeserving of Success

• Recognize Your Achievements: Take stock of your accomplishments and acknowledge the hard work and dedication that led to them. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.
• Imposter Phenomenon is Common: Understand that imposter syndrome is more common than you might think, and many successful individuals have experienced it at some point in their careers. You're not alone in feeling this way.
• Focus on Contribution: Shift your focus from feeling undeserving to the value you bring to your clients and your team. Remind yourself of the positive impact you've had on your clients' lives through your work.
• Growth Mindset: Embrace a mindset of continuous growth and improvement. Instead of viewing challenges as evidence of your inadequacy, see them as opportunities for learning and development.
• Gratitude Practice: Cultivate a practice of gratitude to counter feelings of unworthiness. Regularly reflect on the things you're grateful for, including your skills, opportunities, and achievements.
• Professional Therapy or Coaching: If imposter syndrome significantly impacts your well-being and performance, consider seeking professional therapy or coaching. A trained therapist or coach can help you explore underlying beliefs and develop coping strategies.

Imposter syndrome is common, but it can be beaten. You can start by being aware, identifying and immediately get out of your head and start p[rodciuiing some positive thoughts. Don't forget to reach out to people who can help you feel more confident, like mentors or friends.

BE GREAT, BE YOU!

-AP