Imposter syndrome is loosely defined as doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud. So many people in the industry and in business feel like this. Even celebrities feel like this. It can be overwhelming and can make you freeze and second guess all your decisions.
Psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes developed the concept, originally termed “imposter phenomenon,” in their 1978 founding study. They posited that “despite outstanding academic and professional accomplishments, women who experience the imposter phenomenon persist in believing that they are really not bright and have fooled anyone who thinks otherwise.” Their findings spurred decades of thought leadership, programs, and initiatives to address imposter syndrome in women.
“Why am I here”
“I am not capable”
“They shouldn’t have chosen me”
“I can’t do this”
These types of statements run through my head all the time and I am sure they are in your head as well. BUT we need to stop them! We all need to remember that we wouldn’t have gotten the client or contract or the opportunity if we were not capable. We cannot allow the imposter inside of us take over and stop us from achieving all that we are going to achieve.
“We are meant to be here”
“We are capable”
“We have been chosen because we deserve it”
“I can do this”
The stress that the imposter can take over in our bodies can be so overwhelming and that fear and stress is what can stop us from performing and going into any situation with our heads held high. Don’t let the imposter win.
I know it is so hard to not let that imposter take over and the not let that fear take over. Daily affirmations can help you remember that you are not the imposter that you are worth the client or contract or opportunity.
