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Imposter is described as the constant inability to acknowledge that one’s achieved success is a result of either one’s own efforts or skills or to disregard these achievements as deserved. A common thought associated with this syndrome is that success requires perfection. True perfection is practically impossible, so failing to achieve it does not make someone a fraud. If you feel like a fraud, working harder  may not necessarily help in overcoming imposter syndrome. The following strategies can however help you resolve imposter feelings productively.

To understand and learn more about imposter syndrome and the different types, read here

Avoid comparison

It may seem as though everyone around you has their life’s in order and everything is swell. However, we only see the outside and have no idea what’s happening behind closed doors. Everyone is created with their own unique abilities. You may not excel in every task that others do, but you don’t have to, either. Remember almost no one can “do it all.” Even when it seems like someone has everything under control. Do not allow others’ success to point out your flaws.

Photo from: Verywell Mind

Build meaningful connections

Avoid self reliance and the “I can do it by myself” mentality.  Instead, turn to classmates, peers, and colleagues to create a network of mutual support. 

They can, offer guidance and support, encourage your efforts to grow and  can also help you  feel less alone. People who suffer from this syndrome also tend to build superficial relationships, mainly due to their imposter feelings. Well, remember no relationship is perfect and someone who really sees you does not care about how perfect you are.

Psyche yourself up

Research has found that what you say to yourself actually changes your self image in turn boosting confidence during a low moment. According to The New York Times these four exercises can help change the way you think about yourself: 

  • Affirmations
  • Acknowledging and own your accomplishments
  • Visualize success not failure 

Finally, always remember to offer yourself some kindness and compassion instead of judgment and self-doubt. These can help maintain a realistic perspective and motivate you to pursue healthy self-growth. If however you continue to struggle with imposter feelings, seek out a therapist that can offer support with overcoming feelings of unworthiness or perceived fraudulence and addressing anxiety, depression.

Ngumeritiza Katjimune

Hi my name is Ngumeritiza. I am a contributor at Afterbreak Magazine, I've been writing for the past two years and I have honestly fallen in-love with being able express my views on so many different topics and issues. Although I'm currently pursuing a career in Physiotherapy at the University of Namibia, I believe that everyone has a creative part within themselves and writing helps me explore my creativeness.

One Reply to “Imposter syndrome: How to overcome it”

  1. Beautiful and to the point article Ngumz. 💕 Imposter Syndrome is a real phenomenon most of us aren’t always aware we’re facing

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About Afterbreak Magazine

Afterbreak Magazine is a Namibian digital youth magazine that presently leads in educating, empowering and entertaining young Namibian people, with the aim of building a community of growth, a sense of responsibility and a shared identity.

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About Afterbreak Magazine

Afterbreak Magazine is a Namibian digital youth magazine that presently leads in educating, empowering and entertaining young Namibian people, with the aim of building a community of growth, a sense of responsibility and a shared identity.

Advertise with us on Instagram!

Popular Posts

Calendar

September 2022
S M T W T F S
 123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
252627282930