"Impostor syndrome is the province of the successful, of the high achievers, of the perfectionists. That's the irony." – Kate Hilton.
Impostor syndrome is the feeling of negativity that constantly tells you that you are not good enough, should do better, and are incompetent. Interestingly it is all in your head, within you! When it affects you, you feel like everything you have achieved sheer luck, and literally nothing you have done counts. But the surprising fact here is many high achievers have experienced this feeling quite often. As we are more exposed to information worldwide, we understand that emotion can affect anyone. So, how does it impact people, and why do they perform better even when suffering from impostor syndrome?
What Happens When You Have Impostor Syndrome?
Let's understand what causes impostor syndrome and how to recognize the signs.
Any new challenge, constant comparison, or high expectations could trigger impostor syndrome in a person. It can lead to a feeling of inadequacy and could cave the victim into a state of mental insecurity. It can also spur from a lower confidence level or when everyone around is highly competitive. All of this happens even when the person is qualified and has notable achievements.
Check out the list to understand the signs of impostor syndrome in you.
- You do not promptly put your doubts upfront.
- You believe seeking help is a sign of weakness.
- You constantly feel the need to upgrade your skills.
- You feel the need to succeed in all aspects of life.
- You find it tough to share your feelings with anyone.
- You show withdrawal symptoms even when attempting to deliver a presentation.
Performing Better With Impostor Syndrome
The problem with people suffering from impostor syndrome is their over consciousness about their performance in all sectors of life. They strive to be the best version of themselves, and in that pursuit, they keep high expectations of themselves. While it can be tamed optimistically, anything in excess could cause trouble.
Famous people like Emma Watson, Albert Einstein, Oprah Winfrey claim to be victims of impostor syndrome. Does it set them back? No! Because they don't give in to their thoughts simply. Of course, they listen to their subconscious call and improvise on their actions so that they achieve a better result than before. Here are some findings that prove people with impostor syndrome perform better.
They Have Excellent Interpersonal Skills
People suffering from impostor syndrome tend to have a compassionate attitude and empathize better. They focus more on the team and create excellent work relationships. While most of them tend to have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, they postpone helping themselves.
They are Easy to Talk to and Express Better to People's Pain.
While interacting, impostors are more open and welcoming in their approach. They use their body language to display interest in the other person, like gestures, eye contact, listening intently followed by questions. The downside to this feature is beyond all this innateness; they hide their anxiety and issues that need a platform to share.
Their Competitive Minds Push Them to Achieve More.
Although impostors seem to fight their convictions a lot, the best thing about it is that they keep pushing themselves. The constant internal nudge helps them take on the challenges head-on and accomplish results that only a few can think of.
What Can You Do?
People suffering from impostor syndrome cannot simply take out the feelings of self-doubt and change their perception in a day. They must focus on the positive side and embrace that they are on the path of knowing themselves better. Here are a few suggestions to help impostors set their goals on track and achieve a little more every day.
Share Feelings
It is crucial for an impostor to share how they feel. If they feel bound by their colleagues and supervisors, they can rely on their family and friends outside work. As they talk, they let go of the feelings subsequently. It can instantly boost your confidence at work.
Stop Comparing
Every individual is different and has different goals. So, people suffering from impostor syndrome should stop looking elsewhere or compare. It also helps when they take a genuine interest in other people during conversations. That takes the mind off from self-obsession.
Analyze
Impostors must rationally analyze if the self-destructing thoughts make sense at all. I understand it's harder practicing it, but when things are magnified in a logical glass, every insecurity gets its answer.
Track Your Strengths
It is imperative to note that impostors have many skills that they do not credit themselves for. They must realistically assess those abilities and learn how to be confident! When you track your strengths and amplify your achievements, that eventually builds up your morale.
Don't Give Up
In a world of lions, be a fox. You do not have to be perfect in everything you do. Perfectionism and impostor syndrome complement each other, but you must remember never to give up. Assess what you have to do, give it your best shot, and breathe it away. You must learn to acknowledge the hard work you put in every step.
Deal Logically
Whenever you feel overly questionable about your intentions or doubt your abilities, look at the situation logically. Assess what you have achieved and reason out your fears with facts. Seek help when your thoughts seem to overpower you.
Believe in Yourself
People suffering from impostor syndrome must surround themselves with self-help books and positive people; they should accept their tendency to suffer from impostor syndrome and share how they feel overwhelmed in most situations. Once they reaffirm their faith in their talents, they will understand the value of the gifts they possess.
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