4 Strategies To Help Beat Imposter Syndrome

Many entrepreneurs experience the unwanted emotion lurking, just waiting to rise to the surface to override our hard work. It’s an ugly feeling that impacts the best of us from time to time. If you allow it, this unwelcome emotion can completely derail your mental and emotional strength, bringing your business to a paralyzing halt (Trust me, I've experienced it one too many times).

So, you’ve done well for yourself. Taking a quick glance at your experience and looking at that long list of accomplishments. All signs point towards success. You look good on paper.

Now, wait.

Accomplished. A proven authority. However, there’s this tightness in the chest that hints at an entirely different conclusion. It even causes you to start questioning yourself because you're worried that others will think you are a fraud.

Are you sitting there reading this silently, nodding your head in agreement? I know right?!

The term Imposter Syndrome was coined and introduced to the world in 1978 by Dr. Pauline R. Clance and Dr. Suzanne A. Imes. This term means a psychological pattern in which individual doubts their accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a "fraud".

Everyone experiences Imposter Syndrome from time to time. Even the great Maya Angelou said, “I have written 11 books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.'”

When imposter syndrome creeps in, you feel not good enough; not worthy. And from there, danger can strike...and it can seriously impact your business.

It's time to let that go, Corporate Misfits.

Here are four tips to help you banish this syndrome that might sneak up on you from time to time.

Tip # 1: Write down your accomplishments

It may seem silly at first, but take some time to write down your accomplishments, both small and large. Go all out and don't hold back. Once you're done writing out your accomplishments sit back and take pride in all that you've achieved. This list proves that you know what you're doing and will help silence the imposter syndrome monster.

Tip #2: Create A Raving Fan Folder

Do you love receiving positive emails and complimentary comments on social media? Don’t be afraid to say yes! (Who doesn’t?!) The key is to use these positive messages to help move you forward.

So pull out some raving fan emails, screenshot positive shoutouts from social media, or anything that provides tangible evidence that you’re doing great work and others noticed.

Their words can remind you of why you do what you do, despite any feelings of inferiority.

Tip #3: Build And Participate In A Support Network

When you feel imposter syndrome coming on, have a support system or a mentor you can lean on. Talking it out with others can serve multiple purposes.

This support system can help you get back on track and remind you that you are not an imposter.

Tip #4: Embrace the feeling. Let it move you forward

Sometimes the best way to eliminate a problem is to simply embrace it. When you feel imposter syndrome, let yourself feel those feelings...and then move on.

If you take a moment to realize you’re not truly under a microscope of judgment from the whole world, it’s much easier to let go of the fear that your shortcomings are glaring.

Now it's time for you to go out and be exactly who you are at all times. The key is to not let the feeling stop you from moving forward. Take today as your opportunity to start accepting and embracing your capabilities.

xo Brittany