Feeling overwhelmed at work is one thing, but feeling like you don’t belong there and thinking like you don’t deserve your current job position is an entirely different problem called “Imposter syndrome.” One of the most common reasons why people feel this way is due to mistakes, which, even though it happens to everyone, regardless of expertise and experience, still represent a lead cause for imposter syndrome. Besides that, people who feel this way usually tend to work too hard, which can be bad and lead to burnout, which leads to perfectionism.
Understandably, all of that is also connected with low self-esteem, and since all these common factors can have big effects on our personal life, it’s crucial to learn how to deal with this issue and overcome it, which is something we will further discuss.
Reality check
The best way to find out for yourself how productive you are at work is by separating facts from feelings. Namely, since it’s our feelings that cause this syndrome, it’s crucial to check the facts and focus on them, as those facts will give us precise insight into how efficient and productive we are, or to be more precise, what is our worth to the company. Yes, our brain sometimes works in mysterious ways, and there is nothing wrong with being motivated to prove yourself at work, but when that becomes an obsession based on a feeling that you do not deserve that position, it can become a problem. Luckily, going through the facts and focusing solely on them will help us with getting a better picture of how productive we are. Besides this, wondering how to overcome imposter syndrome shouldn’t be an issue as there are other ways to do so, and even clinics that help people deal with and overcome this issue.
Share your thoughts
Source: freepik.com
It doesn’t matter if we are talking about some private or work-related issues since one of the best ways to overcome that bad feelings and actions is by talking about that problem. Yes, the first step toward the solution of any problem is acknowledging we have a problem, as this is the only way to overcome it. Understandably, even if one doesn’t feel good about sharing how they feel with someone they do not know, they can always tell how they feel, and what their thoughts are to their family and friends. Overall the key is to talk about it with someone we entirely trust. On the other hand, going through this issue with someone who has already dealt with similar, if not the same problems will also be of much help, as they could guide you through the process. Keep in mind that they have already been through what you are currently facing, which can only be helpful for both parties. Besides that, by talking to them, you will not feel alone, which is yet another factor that makes sharing so important, as you can confide in someone and learn from each other perspectives.
Find a mentor
Having a mentor is a great thing for every person that is uncertain about their skills or overthinks a lot, as a mentor is a person who can help them improve and check whether the job they have done is well done or needs some correction. People facing imposter syndrome can find it much easier to deal with it if they have a mentor, as they can check every single detail with them and be sure they are doing everything right. Namely, these people are always worried they are not good enough, and talking to a mentor can help them get back to reality and realize how important they are. Of course, a mentor should be the person you believe in and respect, as only they can impact positively on you, and you should be able to tell them all about the imposter syndrome and your feelings. If that is not the case, and the mentor is the person you do not believe in and think it is impossible to learn anything from them, it can do more harm than good and just increase bad feelings related to imposter syndrome.
Team up
Source: freepik.com
People with imposter syndrome usually compare themselves with their team members, which can be pretty bad for their confidence, even if they are not worse than them. Unfortunately, it can cause serious problems, especially in companies where teamwork is one of the necessary skills every worker should have. Instead of comparing to other team members, try to be cooperative, talk to them, and learn together, as it can improve the teamwork and increase your, theirs, and a company’s productivity. Although it might seem too complicated and difficult, open conversation is the key, and talking to your team members without hesitation can help you grow as a person and as a worker and reduce stress and bad feelings.
Focus on good things
No matter how bad one thinks they are at work, there is always something they are doing good, and they are aware of it. No matter how big the task they can do perfectly, focusing on it and celebrating the success with team members is always important. It can help you feel better, and their approval and support can help you defeat the bad feelings imposter syndrome brings. Good things, no matter how small they are, can change our perception and make us feel much better in our skin, which is important for our overall being.
The bottom line
Source: freepik.com
Facing the imposter syndrome and all the negative thoughts and feelings it brings is never easy, and a person can start feeling absolutely useless and unimportant, which can lead to severe problems. Because of that, it is crucial to recognize and accept it and find the best way to fight back. The best thing is to be realistic, and to communicate openly with team members, as they can get an active role in helping you to overcome it. Keep in mind that it seems worse than it is, and it is possible to overcome it, so never lose hope and will.
