Imposter Syndrome. Sounds ominous, doesn’t it?
Well, it’s not really. In fact, let’s start to take it down a notch by taking away its prestige-granting capital letters:
imposter syndrome.
There, that’s better.
Now, what we have to understand is, imposter syndrome is just a made up phrase. It’s just a term that’s become fashionable to describe an experience.
What is that experience?
Basically, it’s a collection of thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and emotions that tell us (falsely) that we’re not as good, capable, competent, or worthy as we actually are.
Understanding these sneaky thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and emotions is like flipping on a light in a darkened room. When you can start to see them for what they are, it becomes easier to take the first step of a journey towards empowering yourself to change.
Here are 5 typical signs of what we call “imposter syndrome”:
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That Nudging Niggle of Self-Doubt:
imposter syndrome loves to sprinkle our path with constant self-doubt. Ever find yourself feeling like a bit of a con artist, despite your many accomplishments? Or questioning your own competence even when you’ve done a stellar job? That, my friend, is the imposter at work, strumming the chords of self-doubt in your heart.
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The Gargantuan Ghost of Failure:
Our second signpost on this journey is an oversized fear of failure, a kind of phantom lurking in the shadows. This ghost spins tales of unreachable standards, making you sweat over tiny slip-ups and blink at the thought of new opportunities. Just remember, it’s the imposter doing its best to keep you in your safe corner, away from that shining chance to grow. It’s not the TRUE you!
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The Sneaky Habit of Shooing Away Success:
Do you find yourself explaining away your victories, labeling them as “just luck” or “good timing”? Are your accomplishments simply balloons that got carried away by the wind? This is yet another way our impish “friend” tries to steal your thunder. It’s time to take back the credit you deserve!
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The Game of Endless Comparisons:
If you’re always measuring your pile of successes against others’, you might just be playing the imposter’s favorite game. Feeling like you’re always one step behind, or that your efforts are never enough? The imposter loves to stir that pot of self-doubt and comparisons – but remember, your journey is unique, and it’s the only one that matters.
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The Persistent Illusion of Being a Fraud:
Finally, the imposter’s pièce de résistance: convincing you that you’re a fraud! This means persistently feeling that your achievements are a sham, and that you’re just fooling everyone around you. Remember, the imposter is a master of illusions, and you are more capable and deserving than it wants you to believe.
Well, there you have it, the trail of breadcrumbs leading us through the labyrinth of imposter syndrome. If these signs feel familiar, remember, you’re not alone. It’s okay to ask for help, to lean on others for support, and to practice strategies that promote self-love and acceptance. By shining a light on these mischievous antics, we can begin to embrace our worth and celebrate our genuine, marvelous selves.
So, if you’re ready to send that imposter packing, reach out and schedule a private call today!
