In preparing for this blog — and the YouTube video below — I did quite a bit of research on Imposter Syndrome. And I found that many experts seem to agree that Imposter Syndrome mostly stems from a traumatic childhood or traumas, in general.
Certainly, in some cases, that may be true. Like, if you have the type of Imposter Syndrome that doesn’t allow you to ever step into your own thing.
But I’d like to make a case for why Imposter Syndrome is, actually, totally normal.
Allow me, though, to, first, provide my personal (but studied) definition of the term:
Imposter syndrome is a feeling that you are:
- faking it
- impersonating someone
- lacking in value/expertise/experience/worthiness
Basically, it’s the belief you’re not competent at whatever it is you’re doing (or pretending to do).
Every single one of us experiences a little bit of apprehension attempting something we’ve never done before, right? That’s just human.
Personal anecdote: As I recently mentioned, when I was doing consumer fitness videos, I thought someone was going to knock on the door and say,
“Excuse me, ma’am? We know you’re faking it. The gig is up!”
It’s normal to have:
- self-doubt
- fear of failure
- anxiety over doing something new
Therefore, it’s okay to impersonate other people (and even blend what you like most) who have achieved something aspirational before you.
If Tom Hanks, Lady Gaga, Serena Williams and Howard Schultz (former Chairman/CEO of Starbucks) — to name a few — have battled with Imposter Syndrome… then, hello?
Initially, all of us feel like we’re faking it when we first start something.
So, in my opinion, Imposter Syndrome has less to do with…
- your circumstances
- childhood trauma
- verbal abuse
- being criticized
…and a whole lot more to do with the fact that you’re new to something!
Here’s the thing, though. The sooner you can start to fully own whatever it is you’re doing, the more comfortable all of it is going to get.
Imposter Syndrome Hack
Now, it is possible to use feelings of inferiority to your benefit! Check out my YouTube video below where I give you 3 ways to use Imposter Syndrome to your advantage!
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