Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Social Media has us all in a trance scrolling hours day in and out through Instagram, Tik- Tok, Twitter, etc– the platform doesn’t make a difference– because when we are on social media we are entering into an alternative reality. Countless images and video of peers and strangers sharing their successes, business ventures, house closings, car purchases, investments, celebrity associations, etc. It’s too much. We then bring that alternative reality into actual reality and are left feeling lesser than. When is it my time? What am I doing wrong? I’m not doing enough. Maybe this isn’t for me. Imposter Syndrome sets in.
Imposter Syndrome is the feeling of extreme self doubt and inadequacy. The deep- seeded fear that you are not enough and others will expose you as just that– not enough, a fraud. We have all experienced Imposter Syndrome at some point in our lives. It shows up at different intersections in our journey of life, but it’s time to expose Imposter Syndrome for what it is–an illusion. Don’t go into the new year with the lie that you are not enough. We gotchu, with 8 ways on overcoming Imposter Syndrome.
1. Master “I Think, Therefore I am”
A slight spin to René Descartes quote, the philosophy here is that the daily thoughts you have become your reality. You have to change your thought patterns to alter you reality. If you think it, you are ultimately meditating on and manifesting those thoughts into your world. If the narrative is that you are enough–eventually you will believe and live as such.
2. Keep a Thought Journal
The journal will more than likely be the notes app in your phone, but the idea here is to jot down the thoughts that are occurring when you are feeling most doubtful. You will notice a pattern overtime–rather quickly even. Once you’ve identified the negative narratives you’ve been feeding yourself, you can replace it with the truth. Doing this, you are taking back the power over your mind. I can. I will. I am. It’s done.
3. Go to Therapy
Therapists are experts at identifying the seeds that were planted that perpetuate negative patterns in our lives. Talking it out and beginning the process of uprooting the trauma that tells us we are unworthy is essential. Here’s where I found mine.
4. Use Social Media Responsibly
You know your triggers by now, if not identify the accounts that spark negative thinking.. If you know going on wassuh name’s page is triggering, stop. Mute them. Block them. Unfollow them. Take the measures you need to for your growth. Consider intermediate Social Media fasting. Limit your time on the apps, delete the app, get an accountability partner. You don’t have to be a victim to your triggers, take your power back.
5. Let Go of Toxic Relationships
Not only are we our thoughts, we are the company that we keep. If you are consistently around those who think small, those who are pessimistic, and think less of themselves, you will pick up those habits and won’t stand a chance of overcoming imposter syndrome. No relationship is off-limits. Your relationship with your job, your partner, a family member, a circle of friends, etc. if the relationship is not serving you. It must go.
6. Love on Yourself
Treat yourself like the queen and or king that you are. Self- care is important when combatting Imposter Syndrome and doubt. As you do the inner-work you can also treat the external. This will look different for everyone, but it’s important to spend the time on doing what brings you peace.
7. Praise Your Progress
Whether you believe it or not, you’ve grown. You are making progress in this journey called life. Do yourself a favor and meditate on how far you’ve come. Remember emotional and spiritual growth matters. We don’t see the praise in the elevating of interwork as often on social media, but you must praise yourself for all progress you’ve made up to this point.
8. Wash and Repeat
Have grace on yourself. It’s a journey.
Photo by Mike Von
