Feeling like a fraud? How to handle Imposter Syndrome

(2-minute read time)

I have been reading a bit about Imposter Syndrome lately. Merriam-Webster defines it as: “a false and sometimes crippling belief that one’s successes are the product of luck or fraud rather than skill”

When I first heard about it I recall thinking “Oh. My. Gosh. That was me. There’s a NAME for this???  Who knew??”.   

Mine was not crippling, more like an annoying gnat in the summertime that you can’t really see but gets in your face once in a while.    

I read a study recently that found up to 70% of people experience Imposter Syndrome at some point in their career so chances are you’ve had it too.  

In my “How to Get Promoted at Work (without working harder)” program my clients are setting their sights on, and achieving, the next level in their careers.  When we start out they think they really want that promotion, they imagine how awesome it’s going to be. And then, just about 100% of the time, when they get promoted there’s a freak-out period of fear and regret.

It’s usually some variation of “What was I thinking?? What have I done???” followed by a gazillion ‘What If’ questions like:

“What if I made the wrong choice?”

“What if they hate me?”

“What if I am not cut out for this job?”

All of these feelings and questions are classic indicators of Imposter Syndrome.  

The truth is, even if you fail at your job and got fired you probably would not end up homeless on the streets right?  So go ahead, answer those questions “What if” questions in your mind. Play the tape out and you’ll find the worst case scenario isn’t all that scary.  

Moreover, it is highly unlikely that the worst case scenario happens.  Chances are the people who promoted you had very good reasons for doing so.  They saw something in you that you just can’t see right now (hence the freak-out).    

Once you get done answering all the “What if” questions in your brain, remind yourself of all the reasons you wanted this position.  When you went after it you believed you could do it. Those same beliefs are available to you now. What YOU think about you matters way more than what anyone else does.        

Want some help getting promoted or getting over your Imposter Syndrome?  I can help click here to schedule a free, 30-minute Discovery Session with me.    

P.S. – For those of you looking forward to #2019moonshotgoals, they’re moving to Wednesdays!