Five ways to combat imposter syndrome

The fear of standing out and not living up to expectations is universal. A recent study found that 9% - 82% of people experience impostor syndrome at some point in their life. Still, it can occur for a limited time, such as when you're first starting your career or experiencing heavy self-sabotage around success. A lot has been said about this issue over the years; many think they're never good enough, which leads them down an unhealthy path towards inferiority complex + low confidence.

What is Imposter Syndrome

The impostor syndrome is a psychological pattern in which people doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud. This syndrome is very common, especially among high-achieving individuals, and can hinder productivity and lead to feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. However, there are ways to help combat imposter syndrome and boost self-confidence.

How to Combat Imposter Syndrome

Some helpful tips to remember when impostor syndrome starts to rear its ugly head:

1. Acknowledge your successes, no matter how small they may seem.

2. Don't compare yourself to others; focus on your own journey and progress.

3. Seek out a mentor or coach who can help you build self-confidence.

4. Practice self-compassion; be gentle with yourself and cut yourself some slack.

5. Remember that everyone feels like an impostor sometimes; it's part of being human! If you find yourself struggling with imposter syndrome, don't hesitate to reach out for help from a therapist or counsellor. Remember, you are not alone in this! Imposter syndrome is extremely common, and there is no shame in seeking help to combat it.