Tips for managing imposter syndrome

Plus, research on how it may actually be helping you.

Still unsure if you struggle with imposter syndrome?

Here’s a quick test to see if you struggle with imposter syndrome right now:

• Do you ever feel you don’t deserve your achievements?

• Do you ever worry that people will find out you are secretly not worthy?

• After a success, do you dismiss it as just good luck or timing?

• Do you think you have tricked others into thinking you are more successful than you actually are?

• Do you apologize for yourself even if you didn’t do anything wrong?

• Do you think others overvalue your success?

If you said yes to any of these, you likely struggle with imposter syndrome.

The Upsides of Imposter Syndrome

I have spent a lot of time this month talking about how imposter syndrome manifest for bicultural folks, how systems and culture play a role in it, and other traits tied to it. We know that imposter syndrome can work against you. It can cause you to hold yourself back, or fear exposure. It can cause indecisiveness and anxiety. But how can it benefit you?

Yes, research does support the idea that imposter syndrome is not all bad. Here are some ways it can be helpful: It can make you a better decision maker because you are more intentional; it can help you step into other people’s shoes; it can increase your curiosity and your empathy; it makes you a hard worker; it may indicate that you are challenging yourself; it can keep your ego in check.

10 Tips for Managing Imposter Syndrome

• Normalize and reframe failure. Consider how you can reframe failure as something that is not tied to your self-concept but rather a part of the journey. “Reframing setbacks as stepping stones rather than indications of inherent flaws enables you to maintain a growth mindset and continue progressing toward your purpose with unwavering determination.” - HBR

• Become friends with your self-doubt, instead of letting it dictate and own you. Let your self-doubt be a motivator rather than an inhibitor. Remind yourself: I can learn; I can grow.

• Keep an accomplishments journal. This can help you remind you of what you have previously done, and your strengths. And normalize celebrating your accomplishments (along with your efforts!).

• Set realistic goals. If you don’t deepen your self awareness on what your limitations may be, or what you aren’t capable of, you will continue to compare yourself against an impossible version of yourself fueling your imposterism. You are not expected to know everything. You can outsource, ask for help, or learn things in your own time/way.