Leaving ‘imposter syndrome’ in 2020

Imposter syndrome impedes on the capabilities to accept and be affirmed fully in their success. Photo courtesy soundgirls.org

If you are feeling like you do not deserve that new promotion, new job, new car, or award, even though you put in the time and effort, you may be suffering from imposter syndrome. In 2021, we cannot allow ourselves to fall victim to self-doubt, perfectionism and inadequacy.

According to www.mindtools.com, “Imposter Syndrome is the overwhelming feeling that you don’t deserve your success. It convinces you that you’re not as intelligent, creative, or talented as you may seem.”

The fear of failure and success, self-doubt and self-sabotage are all feelings that are associated with imposter syndrome. These feelings usually set in when one is starting a new job, attending college for the first time or other new feats in one’s life.

@BriannaABaker tweeted: “To say I’m letting go of Imposter Syndrome this year would be unrealistic. Instead, I’m letting go of acting on feelings of inadequacy and inferiority and embracing that I am abundantly enough (& you should too).”

Social media has played a significant role in contributing to people’s imposter syndrome. The constant comparison to other people’s accomplishments, accolades and even appearance has left many of us with a feeling of not being “good enough.”

Social media has a way of exposing our insecurities and imperfections within ourselves. It gives us an urge to alter ourselves physically, emotionally, spiritually and psychologically. As a result, it contributes to one’s self-esteem and stimulates negative emotions about ourselves and possibly the people around us.

In a society where everyone and everything seems to be always in competition with one another, social media is a likely reason why one could feel insecure in who they are, which is a dangerous mental space to be in.

Imposter syndrome can possibly affect almost everyone. Studies show that about 70 percent of people will experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lifetime.

It is so important for one to own their rightful place in this lifetime and embrace all of the learning curves and the successes that seem to come with life. Understanding that you are a unique individual, with unique gifts and talents, gaining a unique experience while on your unique journey is essential.

As a perfectionist and a natural genius, imposter syndrome begins to consume my mental space when I am being challenged in certain areas of my life.

As a 25-year-old Walt Disney Corporate scholar, full-time undergrad honor student, executive board member of multiple organizations, blogger, business owner and new podcast host, many would think I have accomplished so much but, the feeling of “not doing enough” or “not good enough” sometimes contaminates my mind and causes me to withdraw, self-doubt, shame and also overwork myself.

Comparing myself to my colleagues does nothing but adding more stress and anxiety to my life. I have to continue to stay in my own lane, acknowledge my growth, celebrate my successes and understand the plan that God has created for my life.

I am right where I need to be, at the right time and at the right place. I am enough.

In the words of @codishaa on Twitter, “When Imposter Syndrome kicks in, I remember this: “No one is me and that is my power.”