 |
Image by Sammy-Sander from Pixabay
Do you ever feel like a fraud at work? Perhaps you worry that you’re not good enough, and it’s only a matter of time until everyone around you figures it out and your life comes crashing down.
Studies suggest that between 70% and 80% of people experience impostor syndrome at some point in their lives. The inability to believe that your success has been legitimately earned and that you have gotten where you are today is due to either luck or some form of deception.
It is a common feeling, but if you’re ever going to succeed in business on your terms, it’s important to build your confidence and move past it. Even the most powerful people in the world have sometimes felt like this, and it’s essential you remember that it is all in your head. Unless you can realise this, you will struggle to progress in your career.
To help you on your way, here are five tips to beat impostor syndrome.
Focus on the positives
Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. If they were looking at your achievements and qualifications, what would they think? What would they be impressed by? Make a list of all your positive attributes you hold, and the things you are proud of. If you’re used to thinking of yourself negatively, you might struggle with this at first, but it will soon help you to start realising that you are where you are for a reason.
Get a second opinion
If you are doubting yourself, it’s a good idea to ask the opinion of someone you trust. This could be a colleague, a boss, or even just a close friend who will tell you the truth. They will give you a positive account of who you are, as well as any honest feedback for areas in which you could improve. You could even talk to a therapist, personal coach, or business advisors for more advice and insight on how to change your mindset.
Shut down your negative voice
We all experience that voice in our heads telling us we are not good enough. Ignoring it is a tough skill, but one that we can improve with practice. Every time you hear this negativity rear its head, just make a conscious effort to not listen to it. You know it is your brain playing tricks on you, and it is not to be trusted. Over time, this voice will get quieter and quieter.
Improve yourself
The best way to convince yourself that you are a strong, powerful person, is to make it so. Never rest on your laurels. Always strive to improve yourself in some way, whether that’s by gaining qualifications, trying new things, or stretching yourself beyond your comfort zone.
Surround yourself with positivity
If there are any negative influences in your life, do your best to remove them. We all know toxic people who like to judge and look down on others. You don’t need this influence. Things like social media and the news can also impact your mental state, so consume them in moderation.
By following these five tips, hopefully you will gain confidence and beat the impostor syndrome for good. Good luck!
