Growth in Progress (pt3)

Boosting that Self-Confidence

Do you ever feel like you're not qualified or deserving of your success at what you do? You're not alone. Psychology Today describes imposter syndrome in this way,

People who struggle with imposter syndrome believe that they are undeserving of their achievements and the high esteem in which they are, in fact, generally held. They feel that they aren’t as competent or intelligent as others might think—and that soon enough, people will discover the truth about them. Those with imposter syndrome—which is not an official diagnosis—are often well accomplished; they may hold high office or have numerous academic degrees.

This can rob you of your energy, creativity and keep you from opportunities to live out of your authentic self, giftings and skills. At some point most people will experience this but it doesn’t have to rule your life. There are ways to keep it in check and receive the gift of knowing that what you did and what God did through you is of value. And it’s okay to celebrate that! So here are 8 suggestions for confronting imposter syndrome and boosting your self confidence.

1. Know Your Signs of Imposter Syndrome:

• Some clues for imposter syndrome are the feeling that you’ll be “found out” that you don’t belong even though you do, you connect your success to luck instead of your hard work, you have a fear of failure or fear of success, you have difficulty receiving praise or gratitude. This doesn’t automatically mean you’re struggling with Imposter Syndrome but they could be clues to explore.

• Explore some self-assessment exercises to help you identify if you may be experiencing imposter feelings. Here’s a fairly simple tool.

• You’re not broken! 25% - 30% of high achievers experience this regularly and 70% of adults will have experienced this at least once in their life. (1) It’s not uncommon, you’re not alone and you have options.

2. Challenging Negative Self-Talk:

• Explore strategies for reframing negative thoughts and beliefs about your abilities.

• Cognitive behavioral techniques could be helpful in challenging the self-doubt or any irrational beliefs. Search for therapists who specialize in this area.

• Practice self-compassion and kindness towards yourself in moments of doubt or criticism.

3. Celebrating Achievements and Successes:

• Nurture a habit of recognizing and celebrating personal and professional accomplishments. You don’t wait for the BIG ones. Celebrate along the way.

• Keep a journal to document your achievements and milestones.

• Share your successes with trusted colleagues, friends or mentors and practice receiving affirmation and support.

4. Embracing Feedback and Learning Opportunities:

• Shift your perspective on feedback as a tool for growth instead of validation.

• Look for constructive feedback from supervisors, colleagues, friends and mentors.

• Embrace your mistakes as learning opportunities and reframe “failures” as stepping stones towards your growth and success.

5. Setting Realistic Goals and Expectations:

• Avoid the temptation of perfectionism by setting achievable goals and manageable expectations. Build on your success one step at a time.

• Break down those larger tasks into smaller ones to make them more manageable.

• Focus on your progress instead of perfection and celebrate your achievements along the way.

6. Building a Supportive Network:

• Surround yourself with a supportive network of colleagues, mentors, and friends.

• Look for mentors or peers who can share guidance, encouragement, and perspective.

• Consider participating in groups or support communities for others experiencing imposter syndrome if you need a helping hand.

7. Practicing Self-Care and Stress Management:

• Make self-care practices a priority to manage your stress and nurture your overall well-being.

• Include mindfulness techniques, exercise, and relaxation into your daily routines.

• Recognize when it’s time for you to take breaks and recharge to avoid burnout and being overwhelmed.

8. Seeking Professional Help When Needed:

• Give yourself permission to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Imposter syndrome can sometimes run deep so professional support could be a valuable option for you. Make your mental health a priority and ask for help if imposter feelings impact your well-being or performance at what you do.

Struggling with imposter syndrome in no way means you’re weak. Some of the most successful and strong people are challenged by it. Michelle Obama shared this,

I still have a little imposter syndrome… It doesn’t go away, that feeling that you shouldn’t take me that seriously. What do I know? I share that with you because we all have doubts in our abilities, about our power and what that power is. -Michelle Obama

Whether you call it low self-confidence or imposter syndrome, it doesn’t have to paralyze you. You can grow in discovering what YOUR “voice” sounds like versus the imposter. You can recognize when this shadowy presence tries to creep up on you and be ready with a response. You can find YOUR path and there are those ready to help you.

Some of this may stir things that would be helpful to allow a coach, therapist or mentor to journey with you on. If that’s you, go for it!

Helping you on your path towards learning, growing and embracing what nourishes your soul.

Your Soul Care and Life Coach,

Brenda Renderos