Let’s Talk About Imposter Syndrome

 Let’s Talk About Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome


Imposter Syndrome. It sounds like a rare disease you’d catch on a deep-sea expedition, but it’s far more common—and no deep diving is required. It's that nagging feeling that you're just one wrong move away from everyone realising you're a fraud. Whether you're a student, a seasoned professional, or even the world’s best pancake flipper, Imposter Syndrome doesn’t discriminate. It’s the great equalizer of self-doubt, whispering, “Are you sure you’re qualified to be here?”

Spoiler: You are. But let’s unpack this sneaky little brain gremlin with a bit of humor, shall we?


Symptom #1: The "I Just Got Lucky" Mindset

You nailed that presentation, but instead of basking in glory, you're thinking, “Eh, it was just good timing.” Your inner dialogue sounds like:

"I just got lucky!"

"The Wi-Fi didn't glitch, that's why it worked!"

"Anyone could’ve done it.”

Sure, luck plays a role in life, like finding a parking spot in front of the coffee shop, but skill got you here too. Unless you're referring to winning the lottery, luck isn't taking the credit for your hard work today.


Symptom #2: Chronic Over-Preparation

Do you spend hours researching a simple task, just in case someone quizzes you on it? Does your to-do list have subcategories, color codes, and maybe its own theme song? You might be suffering from "over-preparation-itis."

Classic over-preparer thoughts:

"I must read 37 articles before sending this email."

"What if someone asks me to explain quantum physics at this Zoom meeting?"

Newsflash: No one is asking you about quantum physics at the staff meeting. Put down the encyclopedia and breathe.


Symptom #3: The Compliment Deflector

Someone compliments your work, and you respond like you’re allergic to praise.

"Oh, it was nothing!"

"I had so much help!"

"Honestly, I just winged it."

It’s time to practice a new phrase: “Thank you.” Two simple words. No disclaimers. No follow-up explanations about how your dog accidentally inspired your brilliance.


How to Outsmart Imposter Syndrome

1. Name Your Inner Critic: Give that voice a goofy name like “Negative Nancy” or “Doubtful Dave.” Next time they show up, you can say, “Oh great, here comes Nancy with her nonsense again.”

2. Keep a “Brag Folder”: Save your wins—big or small. Got a nice email? Nailed a tricky project? Put it in the folder. On tough days, revisit it like it's your personal highlight reel.

3. Phone a Friend: Imposter Syndrome hates company. Talk to someone you trust, and you’ll discover they’ve felt it too. Misery loves company, but so does self-acceptance.


Final Thoughts: Everyone's an Imposter... Kind Of

Here’s the big secret: even the most confident-looking people have no idea what they’re doing sometimes. CEOs, celebrities, and even that one overachiever from high school? They’ve all been there.

Imposter Syndrome isn’t a sign that you’re failing. It’s a sign that you care. And if you care enough to feel like an imposter, you’re probably doing something right. So next time it sneaks up, smile, thank it for its concern, and keep doing your thing.

Because the world needs your brilliance—yes, even yours, pancake flippers included.


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