Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

By Nabeela Ixtabalan, Marina Q. , Chinelo O. , Melissa Fattal ?

Whether you’ve just started a new job or you’ve been at one for several years, imposter syndrome is real and it’s felt by many of us.??

But what is “imposter syndrome” and how does it affect us? Imposter syndrome is feeling like a fraud at work, even though you’re perfectly qualified and capable of doing your job. It’s when self-doubt enters your mind and questions your competence. Your mind can race with questions.?

“Am I worthy? Am I capable? Do I belong here? Will others expose me?”?

This troublesome pattern of thinking can destroy your confidence if left unchecked, which can have devastating consequences. Many of us have experienced this in our careers, but not everyone knows how to handle it.??

At Walmart Canada , the Women in Finance team recently held a fireside chat on overcoming imposter syndrome and finding ways to have confidence at work. The discussion focused on experiences and the steps people can take to overcome these negative thoughts.??

Here are some tips:?

1. Challenge your thoughts: When negative thoughts enter your mind, ask yourself, “How do you know you’re not capable? How do you know you’re not worthy?” You’ll realize that most of this doubt is unfounded. It is created internally, not externally. Most of it stems from your own self-doubt, insecurities and fear. The amazing thing is that they are your thoughts and you have the power to embrace or ignore them. Choose wisely.??
2. Confidence is key: Find your source of confidence and nurture it. Belief in your abilities can grow over time. When thoughts of self-doubt enter your mind, knock them down by building yourself up. Be your biggest advocate and cheer leader, believe in yourself and be a good friend to yourself.??
3. Acknowledge your wins: It’s important to remind yourself of your successes. Regularly ask yourself, “What did I do well? What did I contribute?” List your accomplishments, acknowledge your successes and remind yourself why you’ve made it this far. You might just surprise yourself with some new found confidence!??
4. Redefine success: There’s more to life than work, which is why we should measure ourselves against a broader measure of success. Expand your definition of success to include your personal life. Evaluate yourself as a partner, parent, relative, friend and more. These things matter in life. You’re more than what you do at work.??

Attendees of the fireside chat were given the opportunity to reflect on ways they could combat imposter syndrome in their own lives. It’s a reminder there is power in acknowledging these feelings and the many ways to overcome them.??

But it starts with you. You can train your mind to have the mental strength it needs to overcome any challenge. Tell yourself what you need to hear. Repeat those mantras daily. Extend yourself grace and gratitude. ?

Success and life are not a race and it's never too late to grow and develop.

Arianna Huffington founded The Huffington Post at age 55 and Thrive in her 70s. Julia Child wrote her first cookbook when she was 50. Sam Walton founded Walmart at the age of 44. Age is just a number.??

Define your own success and don’t get stuck in perceived rules or norms. ?

In a world of uncertainty, be certain about yourself. Confidence can be your superpower. Don’t fall victim to your own negative thoughts. Teach yourself how to be the person you want to be.??

Don’t just think it, believe it. Life is too short to settle for anything less than you deserve.?

Because you are worthy. You are capable. You do belong here. You can do it.??

Show them why.?