Let’s talk imposter syndrome.
No matter how well you’re doing, how great your career is going, or how many positive reviews you get, it seems like imposter syndrome is always threatening to rear its ugly, unwelcome head.
You’ve probably coached countless clients through feelings of imposter syndrome – or at the very least, the feeling that they’re not quite good enough. Because it’s all rooted in self-esteem. But as a mental health professional, how do you overcome the dreaded imposter syndrome, and the impact it can have on your life and work?
Understanding imposter syndrome
I can objectively say that I’m successful. I’m a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with my own business. I’ve launched a successful product that supports people all over the world with their mental health. I’m an author, and I’ve had countless media experiences – because people come to me for an expert opinion. Despite all of these accolades, I’ve suffered with imposter syndrome for most of my life. Like so many of you.
Heck, even the screen legend and activist that is Emma Watson admits to struggling with imposter syndrome.
The term ‘imposter syndrome’ was first used back in the 1970s by psychologists Suzanna Imes and Pauline Rose Clance. Rather than being a diagnosable mental illness, the term has links to perfectionism, and captures the internal psychological experience of believing yourself to be a fraud in certain areas of your life – particularly those areas where you have the most success.
If you frequently experience self-doubt, negative self-talk, and anxiety, restlessness and nervousness around your abilities – even in the areas where you typically excel – there’s a very good chance you’re battling against imposter syndrome.
Tackling imposter syndrome
As a mental health professional, you want to be firing on all cylinders so you can help as many people as possible. Your own self-belief will play an important part here: you need to believe that you can help people, rather than doubting the support and advice you offer to your clients.
So, how can you navigate the complexities of this challenging (and totally infuriating) state of mind? Follow the steps below:
Step One: Acknowledge it
Recognising that you’re experiencing impostor syndrome can actually feel really powerful. Simply acknowledging it can be the first step in overcoming it – especially as the realisation will help you to see that your feelings of being a fraud are caused by something psychological, rather than you not actually being good enough. It also helps to remind yourself that imposter syndrome is extremely common, and that some of the most successful people in the world experience it.
Step Two: Reframe your thoughts
You’ve probably done this countess times with your clients, but it’s time to challenge and reframe any negative self-talk. To effectively combat imposter syndrome – or at least, to make it more manageable and reduce its impact on your life – it’s important to replace self-critical thoughts with more positive and realistic ones. Focus on your accomplishments and strengths, and keep a record of your achievements that you can revisit whenever you need a reminder of your skills and strengths.
Step Three: Seek support
You might be the person that other people come to for support, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need support yourself. If imposter syndrome has a permanent presence in your life, try talking to a trusted friend, mentor, or another therapist about your feelings. Sometimes, simply sharing your thoughts with someone objective can provide a fresh perspective, and give you the support you need in order to recognise that not all of your thoughts are reliable.
Step Four: Set realistic goals
A lot of people with imposter syndrome challenge themselves in ways that are not always healthy, or helpful. Ambition and drive is important, but it’s equally important to establish clear and achievable goals for yourself – without pushing yourself to burnout. Break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, as this can help to boost your confidence as you make progress. You should also take the time to celebrate your successes and acknowledge your achievements.
Step Five: Embrace failure
This can be a tricky one; especially if you suffer from the ‘perfectionist’ strand of imposter syndrome. However, it’s critical to understand and accept that making mistakes and experiencing failures is a natural part of learning and growth. Instead of viewing failures as evidence that you are in fact a fraud, try to see any setbacks as opportunities for improvement. It also helps to recognise that perfection is completely unattainable, so show yourself some compassion, and treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to your clients.
Looking to the future
Imposter syndrome can affect anybody – no matter your age, background, economic status, level of education, or professional accolades. Just like mental health, this phenomenon doesn’t discriminate – but it’s not insurmountable.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is an ongoing process that can take time, but with persistence, dedication, and the willingness to silence that internal saboteur, you can build belief in your abilities.
Follow the tips in this blog, remind yourself of exactly who you are, and go forth into your new, confident future. Your clients will thank you for it.