We’ve all been there. It’s like that SNL skit…..where Molly Shannon is in a high school talent show and when she’s nervous she smells her pits!! LOL, maybe not that far?? Nonetheless the same nerves, anxiety, rushing heart beat, fear of failure. We’ve all been there….and I encourage you today, channel that fear into OVERCOMING. As long as your physical safety and well-being aren’t in questions, we’re gonna have fear AND do it anyway!

Imposter syndrome refers to a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their accomplishments, skills, or talents and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a “fraud” or “imposter,” despite evidence of their competence. People experiencing imposter syndrome often attribute their success to luck or external factors rather than their own abilities. They may feel that they don’t deserve their achievements and fear that others will eventually discover they are not as capable as they appear to be.

Common signs and symptoms of imposter syndrome include:

  1. Self-doubt: Constantly questioning one’s abilities and feeling inadequate, even in the face of evidence of competence.
  2. Fear of failure: Feeling anxious about making mistakes or failing to meet expectations, often leading to perfectionism and procrastination.
  3. Overachievement: Working excessively hard to compensate for feelings of inadequacy and to prove oneself.
  4. Discounting success: Dismissing or downplaying personal achievements, attributing them to luck or external factors rather than personal ability.
  5. Difficulty accepting praise: Feeling uncomfortable or unworthy of praise or recognition for accomplishments.
  6. Comparing oneself to others: Constantly comparing oneself to others and feeling inferior, regardless of objective success or achievement.
  7. Fear of being exposed: Worrying that others will discover one’s perceived inadequacies or shortcomings.

Imposter syndrome can have negative effects on mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. It can also hinder professional and personal growth by preventing individuals from taking on new challenges or opportunities.

It’s important to recognize that imposter syndrome is a common experience that affects people across various backgrounds and professions.

Addressing imposter syndrome often involves

developing self-awareness, challenging negative thought patterns, setting realistic expectations, seeking support from others, and acknowledging one’s own accomplishments and strengths.

“Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” is a proverb that means we want to glean from each other what we believe to be beneficial and let’s all commit to making it our own and showing up as our authentic selfs!