If you were to google the word Imposter, it would be defined as someone who pretends to be someone they are not to deceive others, usually for some nefarious intention or personal gain. Imposter syndrome is when individuals feel they are not as competent as others perceive them to be. Sometimes the thought of being seen as successful or even worthy of the accolades you have worked so hard for can be overwhelming. Which, in turn, can cause you to become stagnant in your career and future goals. Today we’re going to take a deeper look into Imposter Syndrome and different ways to combat it.
Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Imposter Syndrome has more to do with the perfectionist in some of us and “Our struggles with Self-efficacy.”, according to Psychology Today. Self-Efficacy is a person’s belief in how well they can execute certain behaviors and tasks needed to produce an ideal result, like performing the functions of your job well to be seen as a good employee. Or being able to complete all of your assignments in an accurate and timely manner to be seen as a good student.
Despite how well we do in life or the things we accomplish, we can sometimes feel as though our best isn’t good enough in contrast to what others think of us and what our work/work ethic says about us. This was tremendously exacerbated by the pandemic as many had to either work remotely, partake in remote learning, or work more than usual to meet the needs of their positions. This immense pressure to adapt to a new normal brought about feelings of being an imposter. And it is completely normal.
Create a New Routine
The world has changed, and so have you to some capacity. The way you do things might have changed, or maybe you have taken on more responsibility at home, work, or school than your used to. This is when imposter syndrome likes to strike as it is usually triggered by some type of change in your life that usually involves you elevating yourself. Further examples of this are promotions at work, a teacher or professor giving you a special project, or taking on more responsibilities at home. Creating a new routine centered around your new responsibilities can give you a sense of readiness when doing these tasks.
Know your limits!
Because we are our worst critics, we might find that we are more anxious and apprehensive to approach new tasks even if we know what we are doing. Familiar tasks can feel more challenging to complete, especially under unique circumstances. Allow yourself to take a moment to reconsolidate or restructure your routine when it comes to completing tasks and functions needed to do your job, navigating schoolwork, or home life. Make a list, learn new ways to do things, ask questions.
Don’t be afraid to recognize when a task is too much to handle on your own and cause you to become hesitant to ask for help. The truth is with so many people adjusting to the new normal, there are tons of room for error. No one will call you out as an imposter when they are experiencing learning curves of their own. Take advantage of that.
Practice Self-Care
We learned during the height of the pandemic that despite the world coming to a standstill, our world never really stops moving. Especially if you’re working, going to school, or taking care of loved ones. Self-care is needed now more than ever, as our mental health is just as important as our physical health. The practice of self-care isn’t just about meditating, saying affirmations, running a hot bubble bath after a long day, indulging in your favorite treats, or binge-watching your favorite show— which are also great ideas that should be considered in moderation, of course.
Here at Renew’d Studio of Wellness Arts, we want to encourage you to take it a step further and find a hobby. A passion project like painting or dancing. Something requires you to hone in on, shifting your focus from the thoughts causing you stress and anxiety. There is a tremendous sense of gratification and accomplishment that comes from taking on a hobby, and it can be done with as much effort and time as you’d like with no pressure for perfection.
