Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome.

I once heard it described this way:

Imposter syndrome is what happens when we meet the edge of our comfort zone.

Put another way:

Imposter syndrome happens as we approach the next (higher) level of work.

And our nerves kick in.

We think, "I can't believe they're letting me do this."

Or, "They'll find out I'm faking it."

Or, "Why would anyone trust me?"

. . . because we're doing things we've never done before.

And, unlike school, there's no "graduation" or "end of school year" to close the prior level and celebrate the new one.

But, you are here.

You are doing it.

And, you're not alone.

Because it also is true: everyone goes through this.

We are all growing.

We are all learning.

We are all bouncing from one stage to the next--personally and professionally--and figuring it out as we go.

So, next time you face imposter syndrome, ask yourself, "Why do I feel this way?" and "Is it true?"

See if you can reframe: "I am getting to try this new opportunity because someone thinks I can do it."

Or, "I am pushing to this next (new) level, because I'm ready to try and those around me trust me to do it."

Approach yourself (and your thoughts) with curiosity, openness, acceptance, and love.

We are not imposters (even though I very much feel that way).

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