Are You the Imposter?

Combating Imposter Syndrome

Published Aug 10, 2023 by
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Welcome back to Pirate Nation! This month, the CRW Well-Being Collective would like to welcome you back and help you gear up for another great school year. Whether this will be your first day stepping onto ECU’s campus, or if you’re a returning student who already knows how to walk the plank, it’s normal to feel anxious about what the future holds. 

For many, the experience of starting a new school year can lead to thoughts of self-doubt. They may wonder, “How did I even get in? I’m not sure how to succeed here. Everyone else seems to have it all figured out.” 

We assure you that these are common thoughts that everyone has the capacity to feel. Especially during times when we are called to step out of our comfort zones and into the unknown. Even those who have found great success in their respective fields have doubts about their abilities. 

“I have written eleven books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody and they’re going to find me out.” – Maya Angelou. 

This feeling of not accepting that your successes and achievements were due to your own efforts and skills can be defined as none other than Imposter Syndrome.  

While experiencing imposter syndrome is a part of life, it can negatively influence your decision-making and persuade you to make poor or risky decisions. It can lower your self-esteem while reinforcing the belief that success is unattainable and not meant for you. This is why it’s important to learn healthy ways to cope with these feelings of inadequacy to put your best foot forward. 

How to Reframe and Combat Imposter Syndrome: 

  1.  Pause, Breathe, and Acknowledge Change
    • Feeling as if you are not quite ready to meet the mark as others around you may mean that you are pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. This can be a great indicator that you’re actually in a strong position for growth as an individual! When you begin to experience feelings of inadequacy, take a moment to pause and reflect on any changes in your life that have led to those thoughts. Then take the opportunity to map out ways to develop new skills and try new things to advance yourself to the next level.
  2. Redefine your Values
    • If you begin to notice the traits, skills, and accomplishments of others around you that you wish you also possessed, then you’re on the right track to gaining those things for yourself. Instead of being consumed by feelings of envy, refocus your values and reflect on what success truly means to you. From there, identify one change you can make in your life to act in alignment with your values.
  3. Be Kind to Yourself and Seek Feedback
    • We all make mistakes, which is why it’s important to practice self-compassion whenever you fall short of expectations. Tame your inner critic by reminding yourself that you can learn from each experience and use your newfound knowledge to take a step closer towards achieving your goals. Lastly, seek out trusted guidance for constructive feedback while trying to improve your skills. Periodically receiving feedback can give you relief from wondering what others are thinking of you, as well as give you directions for further improvement.  

It’s okay to feel like an imposter sometimes, but it doesn’t have to get in the way of accomplishing your goals. By continuing to practice reframing your conceptions and giving yourself some grace, you’ll be well on your way to achieving greatness. Good luck!